S. 192: Restricting First Use of Nuclear Weapons Act of 2025

This bill, titled the "Restricting First Use of Nuclear Weapons Act of 2025," seeks to limit the President's ability to authorize a nuclear strike without Congressional approval. Here are the main components of the bill:

Purpose of the Bill

The primary goal is to ensure that any first-use nuclear strike by the United States can only occur if Congress has declared war and expressly authorized the military action. This is based on the constitutional power that grants Congress the authority to declare war, thereby involving elected representatives in one of the most significant decisions a government can make.

Key Findings

• The Constitution grants Congress the sole power to declare war.
• As per the framers of the Constitution, crucial decisions regarding war should be made by representatives of the populace rather than a single individual.
• Nuclear weapons can cause tremendous loss of life and significant long-term consequences, such as environmental damage and health crises.
• Launching a first-use nuclear attack is seen as a substantial act of war that must be derived from a Congressional declaration, given the serious implications.

Definitions

The bill defines "first-use nuclear strike" as any nuclear attack that occurs without the confirmation from the Secretary of Defense and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff that the U.S. or its allies have been attacked with nuclear weapons.

Prohibition of First-Use Nuclear Strikes

• The bill prohibits any federal funds from being used to conduct a first-use nuclear strike unless such an attack is explicitly authorized through a declaration of war by Congress.

Policy Declaration

In addition to the prohibitions, the bill also sets forth a policy that states there should be no first-use nuclear strike without a specific declaration of war from the legislative branch.

Summary of Impact

The proposed legislation is aimed at increasing oversight and control by Congress over nuclear warfare decisions, reinforcing the principle of checks and balances within the U.S. government. It emphasizes the need for a collaborative approach to some of the most critical and potentially devastating actions regarding national defense.

Relevant Companies

• BA (Boeing): Boeing is a major defense contractor that manufactures military aircraft and systems, including those related to nuclear capabilities. Changes in strategic military policies could influence their business opportunities and contracts.
• LOCK (Lockheed Martin): As another leading defense contractor, Lockheed Martin is involved in nuclear deterrence and related technologies. Legislation influencing nuclear operations may impact their projects and funding.
• RTX (Raytheon Technologies): Raytheon is involved in various defense technologies, including missile systems. Changes in U.S. nuclear policy could affect their product lines and strategic focus.