Bill Text: MI HR0118 | 2021-2022 | 101st Legislature | Enrolled
Bill Title: A resolution to urge the Biden Administration and U.S. Department of State to act with the utmost urgency to secure the release of American journalist Danny Fenster from Myanmar and return him safely to the United States.
Spectrum: Partisan Bill (Democrat 11-0)
Status: (Passed) 2021-06-23 - Adopted [HR0118 Detail]
Download: Michigan-2021-HR0118-Enrolled.html
substitute for
HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 118
Whereas, On May 24, 2021, American journalist Danny Fenster, a U.S. citizen from Huntington Woods, Michigan, was detained at the Yangon International Airport in Myanmar as he attempted to board a flight to Kuala Lumpur. Mr. Fenster had been working as a managing editor in Myanmar for the news organization Frontier Myanmar, an independent news outlet based in the country, and was on his way home to the United States when he was detained; and
Whereas, Mr. Fenster has reportedly been transferred to Insein Prison, which is notorious worldwide for its inhumane conditions, abuse of inmates, and use of mental and physical torture. The reasons for his detention remain unknown, and his news organization has been unable to contact him; and
Whereas, The U.S. Department of State is monitoring the situation, but more can be done to secure Mr. Fenster's release. The United States has a profound interest in preserving the freedom of the press worldwide in order to guarantee direct access to independent information for all people. As a nation that is deeply committed to protecting the freedoms, safety, and human rights of its citizens, U.S. officials should be making every effort to ensure that Mr. Fenster is returned home safely; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we urge the Biden Administration and U.S. Department of State to act with the utmost urgency to secure Mr. Fenster's immediate, unconditional, and safe release and return to the United States; and be it further
Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the President of the United States and the U.S. Secretary of State.
