S. 1478: Countering Wrongful Detention Act of 2025

This bill, known as the Countering Wrongful Detention Act of 2025, aims to equip the U.S. government with additional tools to prevent and respond to the wrongful detention of American nationals by foreign governments or non-state actors for political leverage.

Key Provisions of the Bill

Designation of State Sponsors of Wrongful Detention

The bill allows the Secretary of State, in consultation with other federal agencies, to designate foreign countries that have unlawfully detained U.S. nationals as "State Sponsors of Unlawful or Wrongful Detention." This designation can occur if:

• A U.S. national is unlawfully detained within that country.
• The country fails to release the detained individual after being officially notified.
• The country appears to support or be complicit in the wrongful detention.
• Actions taken by state or non-state actors in that country pose risks to U.S. nationals.

Termination of Designation

Once designated, a country can have its status lifted if the Secretary of State certifies that:

• It has released unlawfully detained Americans.
• It has helped secure the release of hostages.
• It has made positive policy changes regarding wrongful detentions.
• It provides assurances against future wrongful detentions.

Reporting and Oversight

The Secretary of State is required to report to Congress before and after designating countries as sponsors of unlawful detention. These reports include justifications for designations and actions that the U.S. intends to take in response.

Travel Advisory Certification

Air carriers and ticket agents selling tickets to countries with specific travel advisories must have passengers certify that they have reviewed the advisories and understand the risks involved in traveling to those areas.

Establishment of Advisory Council

The bill establishes an "Advisory Council on Hostage Taking and Unlawful or Wrongful Detention," which will consist of former hostages, their families, and experts in related fields. This council will advise on federal policies concerning hostage situations and wrongful detentions. They will also submit annual reports on their recommendations to the President and Congress.

Congressional Reports on Hostage Affars

The President must submit a report to Congress within 180 days of the bill's enactment, outlining the structure and recommendations for improving the existing U.S. government components related to hostages, such as the Hostage Response Group and the Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs.

Overview of Objectives

The overall goals of the bill include enhancing U.S. diplomatic responses to wrongful detentions, improving the processes related to hostages, and providing better support for Americans who find themselves unlawfully detained abroad.

Relevant Companies

• NCLH - Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings: Potentially affected due to travel bookings and itineraries in regions designated under this bill.
• UAL - United Airlines Holdings: May experience changes in flight routes or advisories based on country designations impacting travel sales.
• AAL - American Airlines Group: Similar to other airlines, could be impacted by changes in travel advisories affecting routes and sales.