Child Soldiers Accountability Act of 2008

(This measure has not been amended since it was passed by the House on September 8, 2008. The summary of that version is repeated here.) Child Soldiers Accountability Act of 2008- Amends the federal criminal code to impose a fine and/or 20-year prison term for knowingly recruiting, enlisting, or conscripting a person under 15 years of age into an armed force or group (other than a group assembled solely for nonviolent political association) or using such person to participate actively in combat hostilities, or attempting or conspiring to do so, knowing such person is under 15 years of age. Imposes a life sentence if the death of any person results from a violation of this Act. Provides for: (1) expanded jurisdiction for prosecuting U.S. nationals and resident aliens who violate this Act; and (2) a 10-year limitation period for prosecuting violations. Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to render any alien who has recruited or used child soldiers inadmissible or deportable. Directs the Attorney General and the Secretary of Homeland Security to promulgate final regulations to deny asylum or withholding of removal to aliens who are either inadmissible to the United States or deportable for recruiting or using child soldiers.

Congressional Research Service · 2008-10-03