**US House Passes Bill to Sanction Georgian Dream Government**
The US House of Representatives has passed a bipartisan bill, known as the MEGOBARI Act, which aims to sanction members and senior representatives of Georgia’s ruling party, Georgian Dream (GD), for alleged corruption and human rights abuses. The bill received overwhelming support from both Republicans and Democrats, with 349 votes in favor and only 42 against.
The bill now heads to the US Senate for debate and voting, before being sent to President Joe Biden for signature into law. If signed, it would require the US president to impose sanctions on GD officials who engage in significant acts of corruption or violence related to blocking Georgia’s integration with Western institutions.
**Bipartisan Support**
The MEGOBARI Act was sponsored by leaders of the Helsinki Commission and has been backed by both Republicans and Democrats in the House. During deliberations, five representatives spoke in support of the bill, including Reps. Brian J. Mast (R-FL), Johnny Olszewski (D-MD), Joe Wilson (R-SC), Steve Cohen (D-Tenn.), and Warren Davidson’s dissenting colleague.
**Sanctions Target**
The bill targets GD officials who engage in significant acts of corruption or violence related to blocking Georgia’s integration with Western institutions. Immediate family members of these officials would also be subject to sanctions. The goal, according to supporters, is to punish rogue officials for taking the country further away from the United States and its democratic values.
**Supporters’ Comments**
Rep. Mast (R-FL) praised the Georgian people for their “pro-American sentiment,” while criticizing GD’s authoritarian tactics. Rep. Olszewski (D-MD) called the bill a response to Georgia’s deteriorating democratic situation, saying it would show support for the Georgian people and respect their rights.
**Opposition**
However, not all representatives supported the bill. Rep. Warren Davidson (R-OH) dissented, arguing that the US should take an “America first” approach and avoid getting involved in every conflict worldwide. He expressed concern about expanding America’s security blanket to more parts of the world.
**Next Steps**
The MEGOBARI Act will now go through Senate debate and voting before being sent to President Biden for signature into law. If signed, it would become a significant tool for promoting democracy and accountability in Georgia.
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