Committee advances Haiti Criminal Collusion Transparency Act to expose gang-leader ties

The U.S. House Committee on Foreign Affairs has taken a significant step towards addressing the escalating crisis in Haiti with the advancement of the Haiti Criminal Collusion Transparency Act of 2025. This legislation, which aims to uncover the connections between criminal gangs and Haiti's political and economic elites, was discussed in detail during a recent committee meeting.

Representative Gregory Meeks, a key proponent of the bill, highlighted the dire situation in Haiti, where gang violence has displaced approximately one million people, including 700,000 children. He emphasized that in 2024 alone, gangs were responsible for over 5,600 deaths and thousands of kidnappings. Meeks pointed out that the gangs have expanded their reach beyond Port-au-Prince, threatening critical infrastructure and civilian safety across the nation.

The proposed legislation mandates the Secretary of State to produce an annual report detailing these connections, with the potential for sanctions against those found complicit in supporting gang activities. Meeks stated, “We have a duty to make sure that we identify and hold accountable those who fuel their country's chaos for their own profit.” The bill aims to deny entry to the U.S. for individuals who support gang activities, thereby reinforcing the message that the U.S. will not tolerate such actions.

Representative Sir Philip McCormick also voiced strong support for the bill, stressing the importance of shining a light on the ties between violent criminal enterprises and corrupt leaders in Haiti. He noted that stabilizing Haiti is not only crucial for the Haitian people but also for regional security and reducing immigration pressures.

The committee unanimously voted to report the bill to the House, signaling a bipartisan commitment to addressing the humanitarian crisis in Haiti. As the situation continues to deteriorate, the passage of this legislation could play a pivotal role in restoring order and supporting the Haitian people's fight for a stable and democratic future. The committee will reconvene later to vote on additional measures related to this pressing issue.