Authorization of support for democratic and human rights groups and international observers

(a) In general Notwithstanding any other provision of law (other than section 634A of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2394–1) or any comparable notification requirement contained in any Act making appropriations for the Department of State, foreign operations, and related programs), the President may provide assistance and other support for individuals and independent nongovernmental organizations to support democracy-building efforts in Venezuela, including as described in subsections (b) and (c). (b) Organization of American States emergency fund (1) For support of internationally recognized human rights and free and fair elections The President shall take the necessary steps to encourage the Organization of American States to create a special emergency fund for the explicit purpose of deploying human rights observers and individuals and organizations engaged in election support and election observation in Venezuela. (2) Voluntary contributions for fund The President should provide not less than $5,000,000 of the voluntary contributions of the United States to the Organization of American States solely for the purposes of the special fund referred to in paragraph (1). (c) Action of other member states The President should instruct the United States Permanent Representative to the Organization of American States to encourage other member states of the Organization to join in calling for the Government of Venezuela to allow the immediate deployment of independent human rights monitors of the Organization of American States throughout Venezuela and on-site visits to Venezuela by the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights. (d) Denial of funds to Government of Venezuela In implementing this section, the President shall take all necessary steps to ensure that no funds or other assistance is provided to a nondemocratic government of Venezuela.