H.R. 6465: Hastening Arms Limitations Talks Act of 2025

This bill, known as the Hastening Arms Limitations Talks Act of 2025 or the HALT Act of 2025, aims to address the threats posed by nuclear weapons through several key provisions and policies. Below are the primary components of the bill:

Short Title

The bill may be referred to as the "Hastening Arms Limitations Talks Act of 2025" or the "HALT Act of 2025."

Findings

The bill outlines that:

• Nuclear weapons present a significant threat to humanity, acknowledged by global leaders since the Cold War.
• Historical movements in the U.S. have supported initiatives to freeze and reduce nuclear arms, contributing to treaties that enhance stability.
• A continued global effort is needed to reduce the risks associated with nuclear weapons, particularly as tensions and threats among nuclear-armed countries increase.
• Developments in nuclear weapon verification and safety have evolved, making testing unnecessary.
• Emerging threats from newer destabilizing types of nuclear weapons require attention, particularly from nations like Russia and China.

Statement of Policy

The bill posits several policies for the U.S., including:

• The U.S. should engage in international negotiations aimed at reducing nuclear weapons through a global freeze.
• Efforts would involve negotiating treaties with other nuclear-armed countries to include provisions such as:
• Resuming inspections per the New START Treaty.
• Freezing the testing, production, and deployment of nuclear weapons.
• Establishing limits on various types of nuclear delivery systems.
• Implementing no first use policies and increasing transparency regarding nuclear arsenals.
• Strengthening international cooperation via the United Nations.
• Rejuvenating attempts to create a Fissile Material Treaty to prevent production of nuclear weapon materials.
• Encouraging high-level summits on nuclear disarmament to replicate past successes in reducing nuclear stockpiles.
• Seeking Senate ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT).

Prohibition on Use of Funds for Nuclear Testing

The bill prohibits the allocation of federal funds for any nuclear test that yields a result until:

• The President submits specific reports regarding the condition of the nuclear weapons stockpile.
• Congress enacts a joint resolution specifically approving such a test.

This clause aims to reinforce a commitment to a no-testing policy unless there are stringent conditions met.

Overall Goals

The overarching goals of the HALT Act of 2025 include:

• Reducing the number and role of nuclear weapons globally.
• Preventing the escalation of nuclear arms races and ensuring global security measures are adhered to through multilateral agreements.
• Promoting transparency and reducing misunderstandings among nuclear states.

Relevant Companies

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