No Paydays for Hostage-Takers Act

H.R. 2619 would strengthen U.S. policy against hostage-taking and wrongful detention of Americans abroad, with particular focus on Iran. The bill would expand the State Department's authority to deny entry to the United States for diplomats representing countries at the United Nations who have been sanctioned for supporting terrorism or weapons of mass destruction proliferation. Currently, the State Department can only deny entry to UN representatives for espionage, terrorism, or activities threatening national security; this bill would broaden those grounds. The bill would also require the President to review cases of hostage-taking and wrongful detention by Iran over the preceding decade and determine whether those responsible meet criteria for sanctions under existing law. Additionally, the bill would require detailed reporting to Congress on the use of Iranian funds held in restricted accounts in Qatar, blocked Iranian assets, and international efforts to freeze or seize Iranian assets. If enacted, the bill would give the U.S. government additional tools to penalize countries and individuals who take Americans hostage, though it would not directly affect most citizens unless they work in diplomacy or international affairs.