Congressman Johnson Votes to Further Isolate, Diminish Russian Economy by Revoking Permanent Normal Trade Relations

WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04) voted to impose new economic punishments for Russia's continued attacks on the people of Ukraine, as well as Belarus' support for Russia's unprovoked invasion. The Suspending Normal Trade Relations with Russia and Belarus Act counters Russia's unconscionable actions and Belarus' complicity by suspending normal trade relations with both countries. This legislation will allow President Biden to raise tariffs on Russian and Belarusian goods, further isolating their economies and cutting off funds for Vladimir Putin's heinous war. The House's vote follows President Biden's announcement that NATO Allies, the G7 nations and the European Union will take similar steps in response to Putin's aggression.

"I proudly voted to impose the harshest sanctions yet in response to Vladimir Putin's cruel invasion of Ukraine," said Rep. Johnson. "By raising tariffs, the United States will join with our allies in further isolating Russia's economy and withholding funds from Putin's war chest. As we stand in solidarity with the brave people of Ukraine, the Democratic Congress also continues to work alongside President Biden to curb the impacts of Putin's Price Hike here at home by lowering energy costs and speeding up America's transition to a clean energy future."

Granting a trading partner normal trade relations status allows that country to enjoy lower tariffs and fewer barriers to delivering goods into the U.S. market. By revoking this status for Russia and Belarus, Congress will empower the Biden Administration to raise tariffs on Russian and Belarusian products above levels currently allowed by law. This legislation also directs the U.S. Trade Representative to seek the suspension of Russia's participation in the World Trade Organization and to halt Belarus' accession to the WTO.

Thursday's vote follows the House's passage of the Suspending Energy Imports from Russia Act, which bans the import of Russian oil and energy products into the United States – cutting off a major source of revenue for the Russian government. Last week, the Democratic Congress also passed funding legislation securing $13.6 billion in humanitarian, military and economic assistance for the people of Ukraine, adding to the more than $1.4 billion in assistance that the United States has provided to Ukraine since 2021.

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