The treatment of political prisoners in Hong Kong has prompted a call for action from the Chairs and Select Committee Leadership. A letter addressed to the Department of State highlights concerns regarding Jimmy Lai's situation, including his solitary confinement, limited access to sunlight, and lack of independent medical care. Additionally, the letter mentions reports of physical and sexual abuse in at least one juvenile detention facility.

The letter requests that Congress be briefed on prison conditions and the efforts being made to hold Hong Kong government officials accountable for acts of torture and arbitrary detention. The CECC Chairs and Select Committee Leadership have previously urged the Biden Administration to impose sanctions on police, judges, and prosecutors involved in the arbitrary detention of democracy and human rights activists under National Security Law cases.

Financial sanctions were last imposed by the Department of the Treasury on Hong Kong officials in August 2020. In March 2024, visa restrictions were placed on unnamed Hong Kong officials responsible for suppressing rights and freedoms.

Furthermore, there is a push for the swift passage of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office Certification Act (H.R. 1103 / S. 490), which has already passed in the House with significant support but is still pending Senate action. This legislation would enable the President to revoke immunities and privileges granted to three Hong Kong government diplomatic outposts in the United States that are reportedly involved in monitoring Hong Kong democracy advocates within U.S. borders.

A signed letter accompanies these calls for action.