Press Releases

Approaching the 15th anniversary of the terror attacks on September 11, 2001, the United States House of Representatives passed legislation today with Congressman Earl L. "Buddy" Carter's (GA-01) support to allow the victims and families of victims of terror attacks to sue foreign states that aid and abet acts of terror on U.S. soil.

"Fifteen years after the horrific events of September 11th and the worst terror attack on U.S. soil, American families still do not have the justice they deserve," said Carter. "The victims and families of the victims of 9/11 and other terror attacks in the U.S. have faced unimaginable tragedy, loss, and heartbreak and we must do everything our power to ensure they finally receive justice.

"I am thankful this legislation passed unanimously in both the House and Senate. I strongly urge President Obama to sign this legislation into law immediately to join us in saying we will not tolerate state-sponsored terrorism. The President of the United States cannot stand idly by in the fight for justice for our fellow Americans."

Currently, a legal loophole allows foreign governments to hide from lawsuits brought against them for involvement in terror on U.S. soil. This loophole has posed as a roadblock for the family members of victims of 9/11 terrorists in a lawsuit against Saudi Arabia. Without the Justice Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act, the case against Saudi Arabia will be thrown out of court and the victims and families of victims will not have an opportunity to make their case.