WASHINGTON (Sputnik) — When asked about the status of the bill, Kaine said, "It seems to be kind of held up right now."
The US Senate passed the sanctions package on June 15 with a 98-2 vote, but the legislation was flagged by the House as a "blue slip" violation because any bill that raises revenue for the government must originate in the lower chamber.
Last week, House Democrats introduced identical legislation to what was already passed by the Senate. They then called on the House to quickly pass the bill back to the Senate.
The legislation targets Russia's defense, intelligence, mining, shipping and railway industries and restricts dealings with Russian banks and energy companies. It also limits the US president's ability to ease any sanctions on Russia by requiring Congress' approval to lift any restrictions.
Russian officials have repeatedly denied allegations that Moscow meddled in the US election.
