For Immediate Release: September 7, 2007

Sutton Cosponsors Justice for Victims of State Sponsored Terrorism Act

Washington, D.C. - Congresswoman Betty Sutton today announced her support for the Justice for Victims of State Sponsored Terrorism Act, sponsored by Congressmen John Conyers of Michigan and Chris Smith of New Jersey. The Act helps overcome some of the legal loopholes used by state sponsors of terrorism to shield their assets, and provides compensation to victims of state-sponsored terrorism.

"Making sure that American justice works for American citizens should always be a top priority for Congress," Sutton said. "Today, we're standing with those whose lives were devastated by terrorism, and making sure that American justice works for them."

The Justice for Victims of State Sponsored Terrorism Act was written in part to aid the families of the 123 troops who were killed and 30 troops who were injured in the 1983 attack on the Marine barracks in Beirut. The families have filed suit in U. S. District Court to demand compensation from the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Congresswoman Sutton met today with Ohio families of some of the victims of the 1983 bombing. The families were in Washington to for a new court decision in their ongoing legal struggle. They won a judgment against Iran in 2003, and the U.S. District Court is expected to announce its decision on damages Friday.

Contact: Zach Ragbourn at 202-225-3401