The Hong Kong Self-Government Law would impose sanctions on companies and individuals who would help China restrict Hong Kong's autonomy. It was approved by unanimous consent on Thursday, and it will now go to the office of President Donald Trump.
The Senate originally passed the bill last week and the House approved it on Wednesday with a slight technical change, according to Senator Pat Toomey, a Republican from Pennsylvania, and Senator Chris Van Hollen, a Democrat from Maryland, co-authors of the legislation. . Therefore, the Senate had to approve the slightly modified version before sending it to Trump.
The lawmakers' decision comes as China passed a controversial national security law for Hong Kong that gives Beijing new powers over the semi-autonomous city.
Critics say that the law, which was not revealed to the public until after its adoption, marks an erosion of the city's precious civil and political liberties; Chinese and local governments argue that it is necessary to limit the unrest and maintain the continent's sovereignty.
The legislation has been widely criticized by opposition lawmakers in Hong Kong, human rights groups, and politicians around the world, many claiming that it will cement Beijing's direct control over the semi-city. autonomous.
Many fear it could be used to target political dissidents, activists, human rights lawyers and journalists amid the central government's ongoing crackdown on civil society under Chinese President Xi Jinping.
CNN's Jessie Yeung and Helen Regan contributed to this report.
