Duval Times

U.S. Senators Marco Rubio and Tim Kaine have expressed their appreciation for the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations for favorably reporting the Restoring Sovereignty and Human Rights in Nicaragua Act, a bipartisan and bicameral bill co-led by the two senators. The bill is now set to be reviewed by the full Senate.

Senator Rubio highlighted the importance of the bill in addressing the oppressive tactics of the Ortega-Murillo authoritarian regime in Nicaragua, stating, "The Ortega-Murillo authoritarian dynasty has doubled down on its repressive tactics against Nicaraguans and all while it illegally profits off of a lucrative human trafficking scheme. I’m thankful my senate colleagues in the Foreign Relations Committee have taken meaningful action and urge others for swift passage of this important bill."

Senator Kaine also emphasized the significance of the legislation, pointing out the impact of the Ortega regime's actions on the region and beyond, saying, "What happens in Latin America affects us right here at home. The Ortega regime has committed horrendous human rights abuses against the Nicaraguan people, which have resulted in political instability, violence, and a surge in migration. I’m glad the Senate Foreign Relations Committee voted to pass my bipartisan legislation with Senator Rubio to support human rights in Nicaragua. I urge the full Senate to pass this legislation as soon as possible."

The bill specifically reauthorizes sanctions imposed by previous acts to hold the Ortega regime accountable for crimes and human rights abuses in Nicaragua. It enforces Executive Order 14088 to impose sectoral sanctions on the Nicaraguan economy, requires a strategy to discourage financing to Nicaragua, and authorizes programs to support the Nicaraguan opposition.

Companion legislation has been introduced in the House by U.S. Representatives María Elvira Salazar and Chris Smith.