Waiver and Certification of Statutory Provisions Regarding the Palestine Liberation Organization

President Bush waived a 1987 law that restricted U.S. dealings with the Palestine Liberation Organization, certifying the waiver as important to national security interests. The waiver is effective for six months and requires transmission to Congress and publication in the Federal Register.

Federal Register Open PDF 70 FR 21611

Impact dates

Oct 14, 2005
Waiver expiration (6 months from signing)
Apr 14, 2005
Transmit determination to Congress
Apr 14, 2005
Publish determination in Federal Register

Key directives

Waive provisions of section 1003 of the Anti-Terrorism Act of 1987
Transmit determination to Congress
Publish determination in the Federal Register

Who is ordered

Secretary of State · State Department

Timeline

Immediate

Waiver takes effect upon signing
Transmission to Congress required
Federal Register publication required

Near term (90d)

Waiver remains in effect through initial 90-day period

Long term

Waiver expires October 14, 2005 unless extended

Risks & tensions

Temporary nature creates policy uncertainty; requires periodic renewal
Balances counter-terrorism statute with diplomatic engagement objectives
Congressional notification requirement suggests legislative oversight tension