RELEASE: REP. HILL INTRODUCES BILL TO PUSH STATE DEPARTMENT TO IMPROVE TRANSPARENCY ABOUT AMERICAN HOSTAGES AND WRONGFUL DETAINEES

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Rep. French Hill (AR-02) today introduced the American Detainee Transparency and Recovery Act so that members of Congress are properly briefed by the State Department on the status of an American hostage or wrongful detainee.

"Congress must have transparency from the administration on the status of Americans wrongfully detained or held hostage abroad. We represent detainee families who are still pleading for any news, update on their loved one's case, or any sign that progress is being made. While transparency has improved from where it was years ago, communication between the administration and Congress, and the administration and families, needs to improve. I am proud that my legislation will improve this process and bring better transparency for members of Congress and subsequently, detainee families."

Further Background:

American Detainee Transparency and Recovery Act: This legislation would require the State Department to provide Congress with basic facts about an American wrongfully detained or held hostage within 30 days after the Secretary of State determines their status.