The U.S. House of Representatives has passed the MEGOBARI Act (Mobilizing and Enhancing Georgia’s Options for Building Accountability, Resilience, and Independence), a bipartisan bill aimed at countering the influence of authoritarian regimes in Georgia and holding corrupt officials accountable.

The bill passed with broad support: 349 votes in favor (168 Republicans, 181 Democrats), while 42 voted against and 42 abstained.

Named after the Georgian word "megobari," meaning "friend," the act underscores U.S. support for the Georgian people and their constitutionally enshrined aspiration for Euro-Atlantic integration. Officially titled “To counter the influence of the Chinese Communist Party, the Iranian Regime, and the Russian Federation in the nation of Georgia,” the bill includes key provisions:

• A full review of U.S.-Georgia relations and assistance programs

• Sanctions and visa restrictions on high-ranking officials from the ruling Georgian Dream party involved in corruption or actions undermining Georgia's sovereignty

• Reinforced support for Georgia’s territorial integrity under Russian occupation

• Strengthening civil society, defense cooperation, and people-to-people ties

Key sponsors and speakers included Congressmen Joe Wilson, Steve Cohen, Richard Hudson, Marc Veasey, Brian Mast, Johnny Olszewski, and Warren Davidson. The bill was first introduced last year and reintroduced in the current 119th Congress.

With House approval secured, the bill now moves to the U.S. Senate for further consideration. If passed, it will be sent to the President for signature into law.