A "Leahy Amendment" is a provision in an authorization act (such as an annual Foreign Operations Authorization Act, or an annual National Defense Authorization Act) either limiting support to foreign countries or certain elements of a foreign government (such as a particular military unit) for failure to comply with human rights standards. Leahy Amendments are commonly attached to security assistance and defense authorizations.
To ensure compliance with various Leahy Amendments, the State Department conducts "human rights vetting" of governments or units the U.S. is considering providing training, equipment, or other support under authorities covered by a Leahy Amendment, prior to the support being provided.
The State Department's Office of Legal Advisor publishes a product called "Compliance with the State and DoD Leahy Amendments: A Guide to the Vetting Process.” I'm trying to locate a copy or link to make it available through this site... if you can provide access please notify us through the "contact us" module.