Bill Summary
This bill aims to prohibit any federal agency from allocating funds to the National Endowment for Democracy (NED). The legislation asserts that the heads of federal agencies are not permitted to provide financial support to the NED, which is a non-profit organization that promotes democracy around the world. The term "agency" is defined in accordance with the existing legal framework outlined in Title 5 of the United States Code. Essentially, if enacted, this bill would effectively cut off federal funding to the NED, impacting its ability to carry out its mission of supporting democratic initiatives globally.
Possible Impacts
Here are three examples of how the proposed legislation to prohibit the allocation of funds to the National Endowment for Democracy (NED) could affect people:
1. **Impact on Democratic Initiatives**: The NED plays a crucial role in promoting democracy and human rights around the world by supporting various programs and initiatives. A prohibition on funding would likely result in the cessation of these programs, impacting communities that rely on support for democratic engagement, civic education, and advocacy. This could lead to a decline in civic participation and a weakening of democratic institutions in countries where such initiatives are implemented.
2. **Job Losses and Economic Impact**: Many organizations and NGOs that receive grants and funding from the NED employ local staff and contribute to the local economy. A reduction or cessation of funding could lead to job losses within these organizations, affecting not only the employees but also the broader economic ecosystem that relies on these jobs. This could result in increased unemployment and economic instability in regions where these organizations operate.
3. **Reduced Support for Civil Society**: The NED supports various civil society organizations that work towards promoting democratic governance, accountability, and transparency. Without funding, these organizations may struggle to operate, which could diminish their ability to hold governments accountable and advocate for citizens' rights. This could lead to a lack of representation for marginalized groups and a decrease in efforts to challenge authoritarian practices, ultimately affecting the quality of governance and citizen participation in democratic processes.
[Congressional Bills 119th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H.R. 3625 Introduced in House (IH)]
<DOC>
119th CONGRESS
1st Session
H. R. 3625
To prohibit the allocation of funds to the National Endowment for
Democracy.
_______________________________________________________________________
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
May 29, 2025
Mr. Crane introduced the following bill; which was referred to the
Committee on Foreign Affairs
_______________________________________________________________________
A BILL
To prohibit the allocation of funds to the National Endowment for
Democracy.
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
United States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. PROHIBITION ON THE ALLOCATION OF FUNDS TO THE NATIONAL
ENDOWMENT FOR DEMOCRACY.
(a) Prohibition.--The head of an agency may not allocate any funds
to the National Endowment for Democracy.
(b) Agency Defined.--In this section the term ``agency'' has the
meaning given that term in section 551 of title 5, United States Code.
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