US Federal 2023-2024 Regular Session

US Federal House Bill HB1563

Introduced
3/10/23  

Caption

No taxpayer funding for United Nations Human Rights Council Act

Impact

If enacted, HB1563 would result in significant alterations to U.S. funding directed toward international human rights initiatives. Its proponents argue that the UNHRC has exhibited bias and inefficiencies, and thus taxpayer money should not support an entity they perceive as ineffective or unjust. This legislation would ensure that U.S. financial commitments are exclusively aligned with domestic and national interests, redirecting a portion of public funds previously funneled towards international human rights initiatives.

Summary

House Bill 1563, known as the 'No taxpayer funding for United Nations Human Rights Council Act', is a legislative proposal introduced in March 2023. The bill aims to prohibit the United States from providing financial contributions to the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC). Specifically, it mandates that the Secretary of State withhold a portion of the United States' regular contributions to the UN that corresponds to the funding allocated to the UNHRC. Additionally, the bill restricts any voluntary contributions made to the council.

Contention

The bill has sparked a notable divide among legislators and stakeholders. Supporters, primarily from the Republican Party, view this bill as a means to hold international entities accountable and ensure that U.S. contributions align with national values. Alternatively, opponents, including several Democratic legislators and human rights advocacy groups, argue that the bill undermines the U.S.'s commitment to global human rights efforts and could harm the country's international standing. Critics also fear that it may worsen human rights situations abroad, as funding can be pivotal for monitoring and supporting vulnerable populations.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US HB400

No taxpayer funding for United Nations Human Rights Council Act

US HR19

Acknowledging the role of the United States in El Salvador's civil war and urging increased United States support for strengthening civil society, human rights protections, and for humanitarian and development assistance for El Salvador.

US HB164

Close Biden's Open Border Act This bill provides $15 billion for the Department of Homeland Security to construct a border wall along the southern border of the United States. It also imposes a two-year moratorium on funding for U.S. contributions to the United Nations (U.N.). During the two-year period, funds may not be authorized or otherwise made available for contributions to the U.N.

US SCR154

Supporting The Implementation Of The Recommendations From All Cycles Of The Universal Periodic Review By The United Nations Human Rights Council, Where Applicable To The State.

US SR124

Supporting The Implementation Of The Recommendations From All Cycles Of The Universal Periodic Review By The United Nations Human Rights Council, Where Applicable To The State.

US HB242

Equal Rights and Access for the Women of South Sudan Act This bill requires that activities carried out by the United States in South Sudan relating to governance, post-conflict reconstruction and development, police and military training, or refugee relief and assistance support the human rights of women and their full political, social, and economic participation.

US SCR188

Supporting The Implementation Of The Recommendations From All Cycles Of The Universal Periodic Review By The United Nations Human Rights Council, Where Applicable To The State.

US SR169

Supporting The Implementation Of The Recommendations From All Cycles Of The Universal Periodic Review By The United Nations Human Rights Council, Where Applicable To The State.

US HB699

No Taxpayer Funding for the U.N. Population Fund ActThis bill prohibits the use of funds to provide contributions directly or indirectly to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). The UNFPA is the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency.

US HB85

This bill grants exclusive jurisdiction to the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia over (1) cases arising under immigration laws, or (2) claims by foreign nationals challenging an order of removal or another action authorized under the Immigration and Nationality Act.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.