WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator and Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) member Kevin Cramer (R-ND) issued the following statement regarding the Senate unanimously passing an amended Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act:
“Standing up for freedom across the globe is as important as ever. The people of Hong Kong deserve to know we understand their desires and support them in their efforts. I am glad to see the Senate – even in this time of hyper-partisanship – unite in support for the cause of liberty. I hope our colleagues in the House join our efforts and take up this bill quickly.”
Senator Cramer was an original co-sponsored of this bipartisan legislation, which reaffirms the commitment of the United States to democracy, human rights, and the rule of law around the world. If it becomes law, this bill requires:
the Secretary of State to issue an annual certification of Hong Kong’s autonomy to justify special treatment afforded to Hong Kong.
the President to issue a strategy to protect U.S. citizens and businesses from the implications of a revised Fugitive Offenders Ordinance.
the Secretary of Commerce to issue an annual report assessing whether the Government of Hong Kong is adequately enforcing both U.S. export regulations regarding sensitive dual-use items and U.S. and U.N. sanctions.
Relevant to recent events in Hong Kong, this legislation also makes clear visa applicants may not be denied visas on the basis of their arrest, detention, or other adverse government action taken as a result of their participation in the nonviolent protest activities related to pro-democracy advocacy, human rights, or the rule of law in Hong Kong.
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