To combat the negative environmental, ecological, and public health impacts of People’s Republic of China and People’s Republic of China-linked investments in sub-Saharan Africa.
About This Bill
Committee
Latest Action · August 2, 2024
Referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on the Judiciary, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
The SPEED Act addresses environmental and public health harm caused by Chinese companies and investments in sub-Saharan Africa. The bill directs the State Department and USAID to develop a strategy within 180 days to partner with African nations on environmental remediation and technical assistance to combat degradation linked to Chinese operations, particularly in mining, fishing, and drilling. The legislation authorizes the President to impose sanctions on foreign individuals and entities responsible for severe environmental or health incidents in the region, including visa bans and asset freezes, with exceptions for humanitarian assistance and national security activities. The bill affects Chinese companies and investors operating in Africa, as well as individuals involved in documented environmental violations such as illegal mining in Ghana, unsustainable fishing practices in the Gambia, and pollution incidents in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Act expires after five years.
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