Bill
HR 1273
The Korean American Divided Families National Registry Act creates a registry to reconnect Korean Americans with relatives in North Korea, easing decades of separation.
Bill Number: HR 1273
Introduced On: February 12, 2025
Status: Introduced in House
Classification: Bill
The Korean American Divided Families National Registry Act aims to address the longstanding issue of families separated by the Korean War. The bill seeks to establish a national registry to document and facilitate connections between Korean Americans and their relatives in North Korea, who have been separated for decades due to the conflict.
Establishment of a National Registry: The bill proposes the creation of a national registry specifically for Korean Americans who have family members in North Korea. This registry would serve as a centralized database to help identify and connect divided families.
Facilitation of Communication: The registry would aim to facilitate communication and potential reunions between separated family members, providing a structured approach to reconnecting individuals who have been apart for many years.
Collaboration with Relevant Agencies: The bill calls for collaboration with the Department of State and other relevant agencies to ensure that the registry is effectively managed and that efforts to reunite families are supported.
Reporting Requirements: The bill may include provisions for regular reporting to Congress on the progress of the registry and the status of family reunification efforts.
Korean American Families: The primary beneficiaries of this bill would be Korean Americans who have family members in North Korea. Many of these individuals have lived with the pain of separation since the Korean War, and this bill aims to provide them with a means to reconnect.
Government Agencies: The Department of State and other federal agencies would be involved in the implementation and management of the registry, requiring coordination and resources to support the initiative.
Committee Referral: Upon introduction, the bill was referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs for consideration. This committee will review the bill and may hold hearings or discussions before it is brought to the floor for a vote.
Sponsorship: The bill is sponsored by Suhas Subramanyam and has multiple cosponsors, including notable representatives such as Michael Lawler, Young Kim, and Brad Sherman. The broad support indicates a collective recognition of the importance of addressing the issue of divided families.
The Korean American Divided Families National Registry Act represents a significant step towards addressing the emotional and social challenges faced by Korean Americans with family ties in North Korea. By establishing a national registry, the bill aims to facilitate communication and reunification efforts, providing hope to those affected by the historical separation caused by the Korean War. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its impact on divided families will be closely monitored.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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