HR-3815 : Still Just a Bill

Justice Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act

This bill amends the federal judicial code to narrow the scope of foreign sovereign immunity by authorizing U.S. courts to hear cases involving claims against a foreign state for injuries, death, or damages that occur inside the United States as a result of a tort, including an act of terrorism, committed anywhere by a foreign state or official.

It amends the federal criminal code to permit civil claims against a foreign state or official for injuries, death, or damages from an act of international terrorism. Additionally, the bill authorizes federal courts to exercise personal jurisdiction over and impose liability on a person who commits, or aids, abets, or conspires to commit, an act of international terrorism against a U.S. national.

Action Timeline

Action DateTypeTextSource
2015-11-23CommitteeReferred to the Subcommittee on the Constitution and Civil Justice.House committee actions
2015-10-23IntroReferralReferred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.House floor actions
2015-10-23IntroReferralIntroduced in HouseLibrary of Congress

Sponsor :

Peter T. King [R] (NY-2)
See Cosponsors

Policy Area :

Crime and Law Enforcement
See Subjects
  • Civil actions and liability
  • Crime victims
  • Diplomacy, foreign officials, Americans abroad
  • Federal district courts
  • Government liability
  • Jurisdiction and venue
  • Terrorism

Related Bills

See Related Bills