Bill > S226

This bill aims to create a comprehensive strategy to prevent foreign countries and non-governmental organizations from providing financial or material support to the Taliban. The legislation requires the Secretary of State to submit multiple reports to congressional committees, including an initial report identifying countries and organizations that have supported the Taliban, detailing the amount of support provided, and explaining how such support has been utilized. The bill mandates the development of a strategy to discourage financial assistance to the Taliban, particularly from entities receiving U.S. foreign aid. Additionally, the bill requires a detailed report on direct cash assistance programs in Afghanistan, examining implementing partners, payment methods, currency exchanges, and the use of hawala (an informal money transfer system). It also demands regular reporting on the Afghan Fund, including transparency about Taliban members' involvement in the national bank, the fund's governance, and controls to prevent misuse of funds. The bill defines key terms like "hawala" and specifies "appropriate congressional committees" as including foreign relations and appropriations committees from both the Senate and House of Representatives. The overall goal is to increase oversight and prevent U.S. resources from indirectly supporting Taliban activities.

Government Affairs

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/226/all-info