Nelson Wells Jr. and Dawn Michelle Hunt Unjustly Detained in Communist China Act

Sponsor: Christopher H. Smith (Republican-NJ)September 18, 2025

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Introduced

In Committee

Passed One Chamber

Passed Both Chambers

Signed into Law

Referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on the Judiciary, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

Boosts U.S. efforts to free Americans and their families unjustly held in China.

This bill would make the U.S. government step up its efforts to help Americans and their family members who are unjustly detained in China. The State Department would create a plan to get them released and provide support to their families. It would also push for sanctions against Chinese officials responsible for these detentions.

What Would Change

Today, over 200 Americans are detained in China, some under "exit bans," with limited U.S. diplomatic action using China's own laws. If this bill passes, the State Department would create a specific plan within 60 days to advocate for these individuals and their families. It would also provide family support and push for sanctions against responsible Chinese officials.

Key Provisions

Requires the State Department to create a diplomatic action plan within 60 days to help Americans and their families unjustly held in China.
Designates a specific contact person within the State Department for families of those detained.
Directs the U.S. to use its influence at the United Nations to condemn China's unjust detentions and exit bans.
States that Congress believes China should be designated as a State Sponsor of Wrongful Detention.
Makes Chinese officials responsible for unjust detentions eligible for human rights sanctions.
Provides families of detained Americans with guidance on U.S. policy, diplomatic channels, and support services.

View on Congress.gov

HR 5491 · 119th Congress · September 18, 2025 · AI Summary by gemini-2.5-flash · 9/10

Nelson Wells Jr. and Dawn Michelle Hunt Unjustly Detained in Communist China Act

What Would Change

Key Provisions

Lobbying Activity