US House committee advances Russia sanctions bill

WASHINGTON, September 15. /TASS/. The US House Rules Committee advanced a bill tightening sanctions against Russia and sent it to the full House of Representatives during a vote streamed on its website.

Seven committee members voted to approve the rules governing consideration of the bill on the House floor, while three voted against. Lawmakers also rejected several amendments proposed by Democrats. The bill was subsequently sent to the full House.

According to Fox News, the House may begin debating the legislation and hold a procedural vote as early as September 15. If the measure clears that hurdle, a final vote could follow the next day.

The bill was principally authored by US Senator Lindsey Graham (listed in Russia as a terrorist and extremist), who died on July 11. The Senate approved the legislation on August 7. If passed by the House, it will be sent to US President Donald Trump for his signature.

The bill provides for restrictions against senior Russian political and military officials and state-owned companies, as well as secondary sanctions on Russia’s trading partners. It would also allow the United States to impose 100% tariffs on countries that are major buyers of Russian oil and gas. In addition, the legislation includes measures to tighten sanctions against Iran.