Enhanced Iran Sanctions Act of 2025
Sponsor
Michael Lawler
Republican · NY-17
Latest Action · Jan 12, 2026
Motion to place bill on Consensus Calendar filed by Mr. Lawler.
Bill Progress
House Targets Iran’s Energy Loopholes With New Sanctions
Why it matters
Lawmakers aim to choke off Iran’s oil cash—and its ability to fund threats—by toughening enforcement now.
The big picture: The Enhanced Iran Sanctions Act of 2025 is Congress’s latest attempt to block Iran from getting the money and resources it needs to advance its nuclear program, missiles, and regional influence. By targeting all players involved in moving Iranian oil, gas, and petrochemicals, the bill seeks to close loopholes in existing sanctions that Iran has been exploiting.
Zoom in: The bill doesn’t just aim at Iranian companies. Anyone—businesses, shipping firms, or financiers—that helps Iran sell its oil or evade sanctions would face serious penalties. The law’s reach could trigger global headaches for companies doing business in the energy sector, especially those with indirect connections to Iran.
Between the lines: Lawmakers say Iran funds terrorism and arms development by selling its energy abroad. They hope stricter enforcement will not only hurt Iran economically but also crimp resources for activities the U.S. opposes. But broader enforcement could ratchet up tensions with some U.S. allies and complicate global oil markets.
What This Bill Does
Tightened Sanctions on Oil and Gas
Targets anyone involved in moving, selling, or financing Iranian oil, gas, or petrochemicals.
Focus on Sanctions Evasion
Seeks to find and punish those creating workarounds to existing sanctions—including shipping, trade, and logistics operations.
Financial Pressure
Aims to cut off Iran’s access to international money flows tied to its energy exports.
Reference to Prior Laws
Builds on existing laws meant to stop Iran from developing nuclear weapons and funding terrorism.
Enforcement Expansion
Calls for full enforcement of sanctions against everyone in the supply chain, not just direct exporters.
Who Benefits
U.S. National Security Apparatus
Gets more tools to crack down on Iran’s nuclear and military ambitions.
Allies Facing Iranian Threats
Regional partners like Israel and Gulf states may see Iran weakened, with less cash for arms and militants.
Victims of Terrorism
Limits funding streams to groups that have targeted Americans and allies.
U.S. Companies Not Involved with Iran
Reduces unfair competition from businesses that ignore sanctions.
Who's Affected
Iranian Energy Sector
Faces fresh barriers to selling oil and gas abroad, squeezing revenue.
International Shipping and Trade Firms
Risk penalties if caught moving Iranian fuel—even unintentionally.
Global Energy Markets
Could see disruption or higher prices if significant Iranian supplies are cut off.
Sanctions Evasion Networks
Comes under greater scrutiny, with stiffer penalties for helping Iran.
Cosponsors (294)
Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick
Democrat · FL
Josh Gottheimer
Democrat · NJ
Laura Gillen
Democrat · NY
Jared Moskowitz
Democrat · FL
Claudia Tenney
Republican · NY
Frederica Wilson
Democrat · FL
Brian Fitzpatrick
Republican · PA
Maria Salazar
Republican · FL
Joe Wilson
Republican · SC
Donald Davis
Democrat · NC
Guy Reschenthaler
Republican · PA
Dan Crenshaw
Republican · TX
Recent Actions
Motion to place bill on Consensus Calendar filed by Mr. Lawler.
Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by Voice Vote.
Committee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held
Referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on the Judiciary, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
Referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on the Judiciary, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
Introduced in House
Introduced in House
Committees (2)
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Source: Congress.gov