Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (HKETO) Certification Act
3/12/2024, 1:11 PMSummary of Bill S 490
Bill 118 s 490, also known as the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (HKETO) Certification Act, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress. The purpose of this bill is to require the Secretary of State to certify that the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in the United States is not controlled by the government of the People's Republic of China.The bill aims to ensure that the HKETO operates independently and is not subject to undue influence from the Chinese government. This certification is important in light of the ongoing political tensions between the US and China, particularly regarding the situation in Hong Kong.
If the Secretary of State is unable to certify that the HKETO is free from Chinese government control, the bill would prohibit the HKETO from engaging in certain activities, such as lobbying or political advocacy, in the United States. This is intended to protect US interests and ensure that the HKETO is not used as a tool for Chinese government propaganda or influence. Overall, the HKETO Certification Act is a measure aimed at safeguarding US interests and ensuring that the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office operates independently and in accordance with US laws and regulations.
Congressional Summary of S 490
Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (HKETO) Certification Act
This bill requires the President to periodically determine whether to allow the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Offices (HKETOs) to continue to operate in the United States. (The HKETOs are the official representative offices for Hong Kong, a semi-autonomous city that was established as a British colony in 1841. The United Kingdom transferred sovereignty over Hong Kong to China in 1997).
Under this bill, the President must periodically (at least once a year) certify to Congress a determination as to whether the HKETOs should be covered by the International Organizations Immunities Act. (The act provides immunities and privileges to certain international organizations, such as immunity from certain lawsuits and exemption from property taxes.)
If the President certifies that the HKETOs no longer merit receiving such privileges and immunities, the HKETOs must terminate operations in the United States no later than 180 days after the certification is delivered to Congress.
If the President certifies that the HKETOs continue to merit such privileges and immunities, the HKETOs may continue operations for another year, unless Congress enacts a joint resolution disapproving of the certification.
The President may also revoke the application of such privileges and immunities to the HKETOs.
A federal government entity may enter into an agreement or partnership with an HKETO only if the HKETOs are still authorized to operate in the United States under this bill.
