Bill Proposes Ban On Russian-Made Products In MA

MASSACHUSETTS — Massachusetts could join the growing number of states hitting Russia in its wallet over its invasion of Ukraine.

A bill filed Friday by State Rep. Patrick Kearney, a Democrat from Scituate, would ban all Russian-made products in Massachusetts.

"The purchase and/or consumption by any and all consumers and entities in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts of any and all products made in Russia is banned henceforth commencing immediately," the bill states.

Lawmakers across the country have enacted similar bans in a show of solidarity with Ukraine. New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu signed an executive order on Saturday pulling Russian vodka and other Russian-branded products from state-run liquor stores. States like Ohio, Virginia and Utah have also implemented alcohol-related bans.

In Massachusetts, the ban would extend to all Russian imports, including oil, of which the United States buys 556,000 barrels from Russia daily, Kearney said.

"We want to signal the federal government that we should be doing everything we can economically to cripple the Russian economy," Kearney said.

If passed, the law would remain in effect until Russia pulls its troops out of Ukraine.

"Until Russia stops killing innocent people and leaves Ukraine, Americans must stop doing business with Russia," Kearney said in a press release.

Kearney said he expects the bill to receive a docket number on Monday.