Summary of HR 1738: Designation of "Alexei Navalny Way"

Bill Number: HR 1738

Introduced: February 27, 2025

Status: Introduced in House

Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HR 1738 is to honor the legacy of Alexei Navalny, a prominent Russian political dissident and activist, by designating the area of Sumner Row between 16th Street Northwest and L Street Northwest in Washington, D.C., as "Alexei Navalny Way." This designation serves as a symbolic gesture of solidarity with those in Russia who are advocating for democratic freedoms and opposing the repressive regime of President Vladimir Putin.

Key Provisions

• Street Renaming: The bill proposes to officially rename a specific section of street in Washington, D.C., to "Alexei Navalny Way."
• Recognition of Navalny's Contributions: The bill highlights Navalny's commitment to fighting corruption and promoting democratic ideals in Russia, as well as his recognition through various awards, including:
  • 2015 Prize of the Platform of European Memory and Conscience
  • Nomination for the 2021 Nobel Peace Prize
  • 2021 Boris Nemtsov Prize for Courage
  • 2021 Moral Courage Award by the Geneva Summit for Human Rights and Democracy
  • 2021 Knight of Freedom Award by the Casimir Pulaski Foundation
  • 2021 Sakharov Prize by the European Parliament

Context and Background

The bill outlines the following critical points regarding the political climate in Russia:

• The Putin administration has been involved in transnational repression, including the assassination and poisoning of political opponents and journalists.
• Navalny's death on February 16, 2024, while imprisoned under dubious circumstances, underscores the dangers faced by those opposing the regime.
• The renaming of the street is intended to express ongoing support for the Russian people's struggle for fundamental freedoms.

Affected Parties

• Local Community: The residents and businesses in the vicinity of Sumner Row will be directly affected by the street renaming.
• Russian Dissidents: The bill aims to uplift and support the morale of Russian citizens advocating for democracy and human rights.
• U.S.-Russia Relations: The designation serves as a diplomatic statement reflecting U.S. opposition to the actions of the Russian government.

Legislative Actions

• Referral to Committee: On the same day it was introduced, HR 1738 was referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform for further consideration.

Related Legislation

• S 614: A companion bill has been introduced in the Senate, indicating bipartisan interest in the recognition of Alexei Navalny's contributions and the broader implications for U.S.-Russia relations.

This bill represents a significant step in acknowledging the sacrifices made by individuals like Alexei Navalny in the fight for democracy and human rights, while also reinforcing the United States' stance against authoritarianism.