H.R. 7311: Lebanon Election Integrity and Diaspora Voting Protection Act of 2026

The Lebanon Election Integrity and Diaspora Voting Protection Act of 2026 aims to promote the integrity of Lebanon’s electoral process and protect the voting rights of Lebanese citizens living abroad. This bill allows the U.S. President to impose sanctions on foreign individuals or entities that obstruct or hinder Lebanon's parliamentary elections, particularly in regard to restricting the ability of Lebanese citizens in the diaspora to vote.

Key Provisions of the Bill

• The bill defines actions that constitute "diaspora voting obstruction," including preventing or manipulating voting procedures for Lebanese citizens abroad.
• It authorizes the President, in consultation with relevant U.S. officials, to impose sanctions on foreign persons engaged in such obstructive actions.
• Sanctions may include:
  • Blocking access to assets in the U.S.
  • Ineligibility for U.S. visas and admission into the U.S.
  • Revocation of current visas.
  • Other sanctions authorized under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act.
• The bill underscores the importance of free and fair elections for Lebanon's sovereignty and democratic governance, and it recognizes the significant role of the Lebanese diaspora in the country’s civic and political landscape.
• The President is required to submit reports to Congress about individuals who obstruct the voting process, as well as updates on Lebanon’s electoral administration and any identified foreign influences.
• The authority to impose sanctions under this Act will expire five years after its enactment.

Context and Background

There is historical concern over the influence of armed groups and corrupt political elites in Lebanon, which has led to issues like voter intimidation and manipulation of election protocols. The Act aims to address these concerns by providing a framework for accountability regarding external actors who may impede the democratic process in Lebanon.

Legal and Administrative Steps

The bill requires an initial report within 60 days of its enactment to identify individuals engaging in obstruction of diaspora voting. Subsequent reports will follow every six months to track progress and describe any new developments or actions taken regarding the protection of Lebanese voting rights.

Definitions

• Foreign Person: Any individual or entity not considered a United States person.
• Diaspora Voting Obstruction: Any actions that limit or prevent Lebanese citizens abroad from participating in elections.
• Obstruct: Includes actions that corrupt electoral processes or engage in violence to influence election outcomes.

This summary reflects the primary objectives and components of the Lebanon Election Integrity and Diaspora Voting Protection Act of 2026.

Relevant Companies

None found