S. 817: Falun Gong Protection Act

This bill, known as the Falun Gong Protection Act, aims to impose sanctions against individuals and entities involved in forced organ harvesting in China, particularly focusing on actions by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). Below are key components of the bill:

Policy Statements

The bill establishes the following U.S. policies:

• Avoid cooperation with China in organ transplantation as long as the CCP is in power.
• Implement sanctions to pressure the CCP to stop state-sponsored organ harvesting.
• Collaborate with allies and international organizations to bring attention to the persecution of Falun Gong, a spiritual movement that has faced oppression in China.
• Work with the international community on targeted sanctions and visa restrictions for those involved in these practices.

Sanctions Framework

The bill mandates the President to impose sanctions on foreign individuals identified as participating in forced organ harvesting. Key provisions include:

• The creation of a list of such individuals within 180 days of the bill's enactment, with updates thereafter.
• Sanctions may involve blocking property and interests of these individuals within the U.S.
• Individuals on the list will be ineligible for U.S. visas and admission, and any existing visas will be revoked.

Exceptions to Sanctions

Certain activities are exempt from sanctions, including:

• Transactions related to the sale of food, medicine, or vital humanitarian assistance.
• Activities necessary for U.S. compliance with international obligations, such as hosting U.N. events.

Penalties for Violations

Individuals or entities violating the regulations set forth in this bill can face penalties similar to those outlined in existing U.S. emergency economic powers laws.

Reporting Requirements

Within one year of the bill's enactment, the Secretary of State will be required to prepare a report on:

• Organ transplant policies and practices in China, including an assessment of the sources and timeframes for organ procurement.
• The number of organ transplants occurring in China and the known organ donors.
• The linkage between the persecution of Falun Gong practitioners and human rights violations.

Duration of Sanctions Authority

The authority to impose sanctions under this Act will last for five years from its enactment, after which it may be reviewed or terminated.

Importation of Goods

The bill clarifies that sanctions will not affect the importation of goods into the U.S., focusing solely on individuals related to organ harvesting activities.

Definitions and Terms

The bill outlines several terms, such as:

• "Foreign person" refers to individuals or entities that are not U.S. citizens or legal residents.
• "Knowingly" implies that a person is aware of their involvement in the activities related to forced organ harvesting.

Relevant Companies

• None found