Duval Times

The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), established by the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998, is a bipartisan commission that monitors and reports on international religious freedom. The commission’s authorization is set to expire on September 30, 2024. The U.S. Senate has unanimously passed the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom Act of 2024 (S. 3764), which would extend the commission’s authorities for two years. The bill now awaits passage by the House of Representatives.

U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Ben Cardin (D-MD) released a statement celebrating the Senate passage of their bipartisan bill.

“The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom remains a vital tool in defending religious liberties worldwide. Now more than ever, we are seeing the increase of religious persecution against civilians who are simply living out their faith. From the horrific rise in antisemitism, to the ongoing acts of genocide Uyghurs face, and the religious persecution of Catholics in Nicaragua, we must remain firm in raising our voices against these horrors. I thank my Senate colleagues for passing this important reauthorization and urge my colleagues in the House of Representatives to swiftly act before the upcoming expiration,” stated Senator Rubio.

“For 25 years, the Commission on International Religious Freedom has championed religious freedom and belief. I was proud to support the legislation that created the Commission and welcome its continued efforts to call out conditions in countries where religious freedom – against any faith – is at risk. The Commission’s role in identifying instances in which religion or belief is used to justify human rights abuses or anti-LGBTQIA+ bigotry is also fundamental to their mission and mandate. This reauthorization ensures USCIRF has the resources to protect rights essential to free and democratic societies,” stated Senator Cardin.

Joining Rubio and Cardin in introducing this bill were Senators Chris Coons (D-CT), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Dick Durbin (D-IL), and James Lankford (R-OK). U.S. Representatives Chris Smith (R-NJ) and Anna Eshoo (D-CA) introduced the House companion.