Explanation of Bill H.R. 23
Explanation of Bill H.R. 23
This bill, titled the 'Illegitimate Court Counteraction Act,' aims to impose sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC) if it attempts to investigate, arrest, detain, or prosecute any protected person of the United States and its allies. The bill states that the US and Israel are not members of the ICC and therefore do not recognize its legitimacy or jurisdiction over them.
If the ICC takes action against the US, Israel, or any ally that has not consented to its jurisdiction, the President must impose sanctions, such as blocking property or prohibiting visas for foreign persons involved in ICC activities against protected persons. The bill also includes provisions for notifying Congress about sanctions and waivers.
Additionally, the bill rescinds any funds appropriated for the ICC and prohibits future appropriations for the court. The definitions section clarifies terms like 'protected person,' 'foreign person,' and 'United States person.'
Passed by the House of Representatives on January 9, 2025.