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New Law Against Extortion Demands by Foreign Officials.

This law creates a new legal tool allowing the prosecution of foreign government officials who demand bribes from US companies or individuals. The goal is to protect American businesses operating abroad from corruption and extortion. It introduces severe penalties, including high fines and imprisonment, for officials demanding value in exchange for business favors.
Key points
Criminalizing the Demand: US law now explicitly makes it a crime for a foreign official to demand a bribe or anything of value from a US company or person.
Broad Scope: The law covers officials of foreign governments, public international organizations, and individuals acting on their behalf, even unofficially.
Severe Penalties: Foreign officials face up to 15 years in prison and high fines (up to $250,000 or three times the bribe's value) if convicted of extortion.
Business Protection: The Act aims to shield US businesses from having to pay bribes, supporting fair global competition.
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Expired
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Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_2347
Sponsor: Sen. Whitehouse, Sheldon [D-RI]
Process start date: 2023-07-18
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Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-09-2025
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Foreign Extortion Prevention Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 118_S_2347.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2023-07-18.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Criminalizing the Demand: US law now explicitly makes it a crime for a foreign official to demand a bribe or anything of value from a US company or person.
  • Broad Scope: The law covers officials of foreign governments, public international organizations, and individuals acting on their behalf, even unofficially.
  • Severe Penalties: Foreign officials face up to 15 years in prison and high fines (up to $250,000 or three times the bribe's value) if convicted of extortion.
  • Business Protection: The Act aims to shield US businesses from having to pay bribes, supporting fair global competition.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Sen. Whitehouse, Sheldon [D-RI].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Introduced in Senate

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-26.

CATEGORIES

Courts and Law Economy