McCollum Statement on H.Res. 559, H.R. 340, H.R. 3774, and H.Res. 798 Votes

Mr. Speaker, I rise to address my votes on bills passed through the House of Representatives under suspension of the Rules the week of October 30, 2023: H.Res. 559, H.R. 340, H.R. 3774, and H.Res. 798.

I voted no on H.Res. 559 because it contained language that could insinuate U.S. support for potential military action against Iran at a moment when de-escalation is necessary. This legislation was overly broad, and without an opportunity for proper debate on the House Floor, this bill has the potential to give license to the United States to use any means, including military action, against Iran without Congressional approval.

I voted no on H.R. 340, the Hamas International Financing Prevention Act, because it was intentionally amended to delay humanitarian aid to Gaza, where people are suffering without access to food, drinking water, fuel, and medical care. The United States has rightly designated Hamas as a terrorist organization since 1997—but holding Hamas accountable cannot come at the expense of Palestinian civilians living in Gaza, roughly 40% of which are under 14 years of age.* This is dangerous, as civilians must be protected under international law.

I voted no on H.R. 3774, the SHIP Act, because the bill contains overly broad language that would have serious impacts on the global economy and the U.S. economy as well. Sanctions are one of the most important and impactful diplomatic tools that we have in managing our relationships and security around the globe. The Executive Branch that administers them needs to be able to adjust and scale sanctions for them to be effective. The waiver within this bill provides the Executive with limited flexibility—rendering the waiver provision nearly unusable.

I voted yes on H.Res.798 condemning the support of Hamas, Hezbollah, and other terrorist organizations at institutions of higher education because every student deserves a safe environment in which to learn and live. This resolution fails to mention the concurrent rise in anti-Muslim and anti-Arab hate. It is a glaring omission not to include other protected classes. Antisemitism and Islamophobia are on the rise in the U.S., and hatred in all its forms is unacceptable and must not be tolerated anywhere.

All people deserve safety and security, and the only sustainable path forward is one where international human rights and international law are at the forefront and democratic ideals are upheld. Peace must remain our utmost goal in the days, weeks, and months ahead.

Thank you, and I yield back.