01 — The Text
What.
- Reauthorizes the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom, an independent federal agency that monitors how other countries treat religious minorities.
- Extends the commission's funding and mandate through fiscal year 2028.
- Commission monitors global religious freedom conditions, reviews U.S. government policy on the issue, and recommends policy changes.
02 — The Stakes
So what?
- Affects U.S. diplomatic strategy: the commission informs which countries face sanctions or criticism over religious persecution.
- Matters to religious minorities worldwide: the commission's reports can pressure governments to improve treatment of persecuted groups.
- Minimal direct cost to average Americans; extends existing oversight function rather than creating new spending.
03 — The Path
Now what?
- Bill passed Senate Foreign Relations Committee on July 27 with amendments; now on Senate calendar awaiting floor vote.
- If Senate approves, bill goes to House for similar committee and floor votes before reaching the president.
- Contact your senator to express support or opposition before a Senate floor vote occurs.
Legislative History
Actions.
- Jul 27, 2026 — Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 505.
- Jul 27, 2026 — Committee on Foreign Relations. Reported by Senator Risch with an amendment in the nature of a substitute. Without written report.
- Jul 27, 2026 — Committee on Foreign Relations. Reported by Senator Risch with an amendment in the nature of a substitute. Without written report.
- Jun 17, 2026 — Committee on Foreign Relations. Ordered to be reported with an amendment in the nature of a substitute favorably.
- Mar 4, 2026 — Read twice and referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations.
- Mar 4, 2026 — Introduced in Senate