This bill aims to prevent the U.S. government from providing temporary exceptions to sanctions on Syria, even in response to the devastating earthquake that hit the country in February 2023. It would require the Department of the Treasury to give Congress advance notice before making any changes to the Syria Sanctions Regulations.
Latest Action
Referred to the Subcommittee on Trade.
AI Summary
Plain-English explanation of this bill
This bill aims to prevent the U.S. government from providing temporary exceptions to sanctions on Syria, even in response to the devastating earthquake that hit the country in February 2023. It would require the Department of the Treasury to give Congress advance notice before making any changes to the Syria Sanctions Regulations.
Last updated: 12/30/2025
Official Summary
Congressional Research Service summary
<p><b>Safeguarding Syria Sanctions Act</b></p> <p>This bill prohibits the Department of the Treasury from issuing or extending a general license (i.e., waiver) of the Syria Sanctions Regulations to respond to the February 6, 2023, earthquake in Syria. (Treasury issued Syria General License 23 to temporarily allow direct transactions related to earthquake relief efforts for 180 days.)</p> <p>Additionally, the bill requires Treasury to provide Congress with at least 15 days advance notice of any changes related to the Syria Sanctions Regulations. </p>
Key Points
Main provisions of the bill
The bill would prohibit the Treasury Department from issuing or extending a general license to allow direct transactions related to earthquake relief efforts in Syria.
It would require the Treasury Department to provide Congress with at least 15 days' advance notice of any changes to the Syria Sanctions Regulations.
The bill aims to maintain strict sanctions on Syria, even in the aftermath of a natural disaster that has caused significant damage and loss of life.
How This Impacts Americans
Potential effects on citizens and communities
If this bill becomes law, it would prevent the U.S. government from temporarily easing sanctions on Syria to allow for earthquake relief efforts. This could make it more difficult for humanitarian aid organizations to provide critical assistance to the people of Syria, who are already suffering from the effects of the earthquake and ongoing civil war.
Policy Areas
Primary Policy Area
International Affairs
Scope & Jurisdiction
Jurisdiction Level
federal
Congressional Session
119th Congress
Citation Reference
4847, 119th Congress (2025). "Transportation Emergency Relief Extension Act". Source: Voter's Right Platform. https://votersright.org/bills/118-hr-4847
