U.S. Rep. Adam Kinzinger (R-IL) on Jan. 16 introduced the bipartisan Georgia Support Act to continue American support for the Democratic Republic of Georgia, which declared independence from the Soviet Union in 1991.
“For years, Georgia has worked towards independence and complete separation from an aggressive and encroaching neighbor in Russia,” Rep. Kinzinger said last week. “I believe the United States plays a pivotal role in encouraging our Georgian allies, and this legislation solidifies our support for their sovereignty and security.”
H.R. 598 would recognize Georgia’s commitment to democratic values, including free and fair elections, and would affirm U.S. opposition to Russian aggression in the region, according to Rep. Kinzinger, who introduced the legislation with bill sponsor U.S. Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-VA). Both congressmen are co-chairs of the House Georgia Caucus.
“Thank you to my colleague, Rep. Connolly, for his work and commitment to a strong U.S.-Georgia partnership,” added Rep. Kinzinger.
According to a Jan. 17 statement released by the lawmaker’s office, Russia has committed human rights abuses, instigated unrest and aided separatist movements in parts of Georgia.
Additionally, Russian forces continue to harass civilian communities along the nation’s border and hamper the return of internally displaced persons, according to the statement.
“This bill demonstrates the United States’ robust support of Georgia’s sovereignty, continued democratic development and security, especially in the face of Russian aggression,” Rep. Connolly said, noting that H.R. 598 also recognizes that Georgia has been a longstanding “aspirant country,” which are those that desire to be member states to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).
Rep. Kinzinger also voted for the same-named H.R. 6219, which the U.S. House of Representatives approved by unanimous consent in December 2018. The U.S. Senate on Dec. 13, 2018 received H.R. 6219 and referred it for consideration to the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, which ran out of time to act on the bill before the 115th Congress ended.
The newly introduced H.R. 598 is being reviewed by members on the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee; the U.S. House Judiciary Committee; and the U.S. House Ways and Means Committee.