WASSERMAN SCHULTZ STATEMENT ON RUSSIAN SANCTIONS BILL

(Washington D.C.) – Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) released the following statement after it was announced that the House and Senate have reached a deal on a Russian sanctions bill:

“Russian interference in our elections and Iran’s continued violations of UN Security Council Resolution 2231 warrant tough sanctions, and it is Congress’ job to make sure those sanctions are implemented. I am pleased that House and Senate negotiators have finally reached an agreement that will allow us to pass this critical legislation and move forward with strong sanctions immediately, because time is of the essence. Waiting for President Trump to respond to this historic attack on our democracy is simply not a realistic option, and the ability of any Member of Congress to force a vote if the President tries to waive the sanctions is a strong and important safeguard.

Additionally, as a proud cosponsor of the Iran Ballistic Missiles and International Sanctions Enforcement Act, I firmly believe that implementing these sanctions against Iran are a critical step in holding the regime accountable for its unacceptable violations of international law. This bill will strengthen sanctions targeting Tehran’s ballistic missile activities, and punish Iran for its various violations of human rights, its illicit arms transfers, and for its de-stabilizing support for terrorists, including Hezbollah, which has killed more Americans than any terrorist group other than Al Qaeda, and borders our greatest ally in the region, Israel. Congress should act swiftly to deliver this bill to the President’s desk before we recess for August.”