On Tuesday, the United States Senate unanimously passed a human rights bill that backs Hong Kong protesters.

After months of no updates or new developments on the subject, yesterday was a major turning point for pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong.

Sen. Ted Cruz said, “The Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act is important legislation. It is bi-partisan legislation… the people in Hong Kong are engaged in an existential battle for liberty.”

The bill still needs to be taken back to the House of Representatives, but if it becomes law, it would sanction officials who violate the human rights of citizens in the city. Also, it would bring Hong Kong’s status with the US under an annual review.

It’s unclear how President Trump feels about this move as The White House has yet to release a comment on the bill passing.

Chinese officials say the passing of this bill is causing interference between China and the US. Some US leaders believe this bill will cause a divide among Trump aides because it could undermine trade talks with China.

The US senate passed a second bill, which bans certain exports to Hong Kong police including tear gas, rubber bullets and pepper spray. These have become a common sight in Hong Kong.

Tuesday’s votes caused an outrage in China, and Chinese leaders have accused the US of meddling in its internal affairs. Leaders there have summoned a US embassy official to the country.