HR 4423119th CongressIn Committee

No New Burma Funds Act

Introduced: Jul 15, 2025

Sponsor: Rep. Williams, Nikema [D-GA-5] (D-Georgia)

Defense & National Security

Standard Summary

Comprehensive overview in 1-2 paragraphs

The No New Burma Funds Act directs the U.S. Secretary of the Treasury to continue blocking World Bank financial assistance to Burma (Myanmar). This pause on disbursements and new financing commitments was originally implemented after a military coup overthrew Burma's democratically elected government in 2021. The bill requires the U.S. representative at the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development to use America's voting power to maintain this financial freeze, unless the Secretary determines that lifting it would serve the national interest. This legislation represents Congress's effort to maintain economic pressure on Burma's military regime following its seizure of power.

Key Points

1Requires the Treasury Secretary to direct the U.S. Executive Director at the World Bank to vote for continuing the pause on financial assistance to Burma
2Applies to both disbursements of existing funds and new financing commitments
3Continues a policy initiated after the 2021 military coup that overthrew Burma's democratic government
4Includes a national interest waiver allowing the Treasury Secretary to lift the pause if deemed necessary
5Targets only the Government of Burma, not humanitarian assistance or aid delivered through other channels

Impact Areas

Burma's Military Government: Faces continued isolation from international development financing and World Bank resourcesU.S. Foreign Policy: Reinforces America's stance against military coups and support for democratic governance in Southeast AsiaInternational Financial Institutions: The World Bank's engagement with Burma remains restricted based on U.S. voting positionBurmese Population: May experience indirect effects as government access to development funds remains blocked, though humanitarian aid through other channels typically continues

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