Ted Deutch: “I am proud to stand here today in support of this legislation, H.R. 1228, the Libya Stabilization Act. This bipartisan…”

“I am proud to stand here today in support of this legislation, H.R. 1228, the Libya Stabilization Act. This bipartisan bill, which I introduced with my friend, ranking member of the Middle East, North Africa and Global Counterterrorism Subcommittee, Joe Wilson, clarifies and strengthens American policy in support of a peaceful diplomatic resolution to the Libyan conflict. The United States cannot afford to ignore this conflict. For years, fighting in Libya has undermined the stability of North Africa, exacerbated a humanitarian crisis, put the human rights of civilians-- Libyans as well as migrants in Libya--in jeopardy, and it has impeded a return to U.N.-sponsored peace talks. Foreign interference has only escalated the conflict. The Libya Stabilization Act will deter foreign interference in Libya by placing sanctions on those who deploy mercenaries, support militias, violate the U.N. arms embargo, and commit human rights violations in Libya. It authorizes U.S. support for efforts to strengthen good governance, promote anticorruption efforts, support free and fair elections, and foster economic recovery. The Libyan people deserve a future free from foreign meddling, from conflict and corruption, and from economic turmoil. They deserve to choose their leaders in free and fair elections. That is why the United States must establish a clear and principled policy towards Libya.…”