Pulaski Times

Rep. French Hill and Rep. Haley Stevens, who co-chair the Hostage Task Force in the House, have introduced the Countering Wrongful Detention Act. This bill aims to equip the U.S. government with new tools to deter states from wrongfully detaining Americans abroad and support those who have been detained upon their return home. In parallel, Senators James Risch and Chris Coons have presented similar legislation in the Senate.

Rep. Hill emphasized his commitment to protecting Americans overseas, stating, "The target on the backs of blue passport holders is stronger than ever, and the United States must do more to protect Americans abroad." He also expressed pride in leading this legislative effort alongside his colleagues.

Rep. Stevens highlighted her experience advocating for Michigander Paul Whelan's release during his detention by Russia. She said, “This critical legislation will ensure the State Department has the necessary resources and support to effectively engage in hostage diplomacy.”

Senator Risch pointed out that certain countries leverage American hostages for political or financial gain. He noted that "the Countering Wrongful Detention Act creates that deterrence by naming and shaming those who wrongfully detain Americans."

Senator Coons commended President Biden's efforts in securing the release of over 70 wrongfully detained Americans but stressed the need for a comprehensive strategy to prevent such detentions.

The Countering Hostage Diplomacy Act seeks to deter wrongful detention through several measures: designating states as sponsors of unlawful detention, requiring strategic plans from administrations, increasing funding for related sanctions, enhancing travel advisories, and including Privacy Act Waivers in passport applications.

Sarah Moriarty, daughter of Robert Levinson, endorsed the bipartisan support behind this initiative. Diane Foley from The James W. Foley Legacy Foundation also praised the work done by Senators Coons and Risch on this matter.

Former detainee Jorge Toledo remarked on how this legislation marks a pivotal advancement against hostage-taking crimes. Neda Sharghi added that it fills existing gaps in processes for designation and deterrence.

Liz Cathcart from Hostage US expressed support for proactive measures included in the act to prevent wrongful detentions from continuing. Harrison Li from Bring Our Families Home Campaign welcomed specific timelines set by this legislation for designating cases as hostage or wrongful detention under existing acts.