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Support for Russian and Belarusian Exiles and Codification of Russia Sanctions.

This Act aims to support Russian and Belarusian citizens who fled their countries due to political persecution, making their lives in exile easier, including access to banking services and travel documents. It also establishes permanent sanctions against Russia, previously regulated by Executive Orders. US citizens traveling to Russia will be required to acknowledge the risk of wrongful detention.
Key points
Establishment of a dedicated unit (Russians in Exile Affairs Unit) within the US State Department to assist Russian pro-democracy activists in exile with issues related to documents, banking, and communication.
Travel facilitation for Russian and Belarusian exiles: The US must develop a process to recognize their expired passports as valid for travel to and from the United States.
Sanctions reinforcement: Existing sanctions against Russia imposed by presidential orders are codified into permanent law, with exceptions for humanitarian transactions, food, medicine, and medical devices.
Warning for travelers: Airlines and ticket platforms selling flights to Russia must warn US passengers about the risk of wrongful detention and obtain their acknowledgment of understanding this risk.
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Expired
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Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_5116
Sponsor: Sen. Cardin, Benjamin L. [D-MD]
Process start date: 2024-09-19
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Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

BRIDGE Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 118_S_5116.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2024-09-19.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Establishment of a dedicated unit (Russians in Exile Affairs Unit) within the US State Department to assist Russian pro-democracy activists in exile with issues related to documents, banking, and communication.
  • Travel facilitation for Russian and Belarusian exiles: The US must develop a process to recognize their expired passports as valid for travel to and from the United States.
  • Sanctions reinforcement: Existing sanctions against Russia imposed by presidential orders are codified into permanent law, with exceptions for humanitarian transactions, food, medicine, and medical devices.
  • Warning for travelers: Airlines and ticket platforms selling flights to Russia must warn US passengers about the risk of wrongful detention and obtain their acknowledgment of understanding this risk.
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. Cardin, Benjamin L. [D-MD].

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.

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