To restrict the first-use strike of nuclear weapons.

2/12/2025, 9:00 AM

Restricting First Use of Nuclear Weapons Act of 2025

This bill prohibits using federal funds to conduct a first-use nuclear strike unless Congress expressly authorizes such a strike pursuant to a declaration of war. A first-use nuclear strike is an attack using nuclear weapons against an enemy without confirming that there has been a nuclear strike against the United States, its territories, or its allies.

Bill 119 HR 669, also known as the Restricting First-Use of Nuclear Weapons Act of 2021, aims to limit the President's ability to unilaterally launch a first-use nuclear strike without prior authorization from Congress. The bill states that the President must seek approval from Congress before initiating a nuclear strike, except in cases of an imminent threat to the United States or its allies.

The bill highlights the importance of congressional oversight in decisions regarding the use of nuclear weapons, emphasizing the need for a deliberative process to prevent hasty or impulsive actions that could have catastrophic consequences. It also underscores the principle of checks and balances within the government, ensuring that the power to initiate a nuclear strike is not solely in the hands of the President.

Supporters of the bill argue that it is necessary to prevent the misuse of nuclear weapons and to uphold democratic principles by involving Congress in such critical decisions. They believe that requiring congressional approval for a first-use nuclear strike will promote transparency, accountability, and careful consideration of the potential consequences. Opponents of the bill, on the other hand, may argue that it could limit the President's ability to respond quickly and decisively to a nuclear threat, potentially compromising national security. They may also raise concerns about the practicality of obtaining congressional approval in a time-sensitive situation where immediate action is required. Overall, Bill 119 HR 669 represents a significant effort to address the issue of nuclear weapons use and the balance of power within the government. It reflects ongoing debates about the appropriate role of Congress in decisions related to national security and the use of military force, and it will likely continue to spark discussion and debate among lawmakers and the public.
Congress
119

Number
HR - 669

Introduced on
2025-01-23

# Amendments
0

Sponsors
+5

Cosponsors
+5

Status of Legislation

Bill Introduced
Introduced to House
House to Vote
Introduced to Senate
Senate to Vote

Purpose and Summary

Restricting First Use of Nuclear Weapons Act of 2025

This bill prohibits using federal funds to conduct a first-use nuclear strike unless Congress expressly authorizes such a strike pursuant to a declaration of war. A first-use nuclear strike is an attack using nuclear weapons against an enemy without confirming that there has been a nuclear strike against the United States, its territories, or its allies.

Bill 119 HR 669, also known as the Restricting First-Use of Nuclear Weapons Act of 2021, aims to limit the President's ability to unilaterally launch a first-use nuclear strike without prior authorization from Congress. The bill states that the President must seek approval from Congress before initiating a nuclear strike, except in cases of an imminent threat to the United States or its allies.

The bill highlights the importance of congressional oversight in decisions regarding the use of nuclear weapons, emphasizing the need for a deliberative process to prevent hasty or impulsive actions that could have catastrophic consequences. It also underscores the principle of checks and balances within the government, ensuring that the power to initiate a nuclear strike is not solely in the hands of the President.

Supporters of the bill argue that it is necessary to prevent the misuse of nuclear weapons and to uphold democratic principles by involving Congress in such critical decisions. They believe that requiring congressional approval for a first-use nuclear strike will promote transparency, accountability, and careful consideration of the potential consequences. Opponents of the bill, on the other hand, may argue that it could limit the President's ability to respond quickly and decisively to a nuclear threat, potentially compromising national security. They may also raise concerns about the practicality of obtaining congressional approval in a time-sensitive situation where immediate action is required. Overall, Bill 119 HR 669 represents a significant effort to address the issue of nuclear weapons use and the balance of power within the government. It reflects ongoing debates about the appropriate role of Congress in decisions related to national security and the use of military force, and it will likely continue to spark discussion and debate among lawmakers and the public.
Alternative Names
Official Title as IntroducedTo restrict the first-use strike of nuclear weapons.

Comments

Recent Activity

Latest Summary3/5/2025

Restricting First Use of Nuclear Weapons Act of 2025

This bill prohibits using federal funds to conduct a first-use nuclear strike unless Congress expressly authorizes such a strike pursuant to a declaration of war. A first...


Latest Action1/23/2025
Referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on Armed Services, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the comm...