hold on there's just too much going on in Congress lmao...
Requires Congress's OK for U.S. military action in Cuba.
Rep. Nydia Velázquez (D-NY)
Introduced in House, referred to committee.
This joint resolution, introduced by Representative Nydia Velázquez from New York, aims to reaffirm Congress's constitutional authority over military engagements. It directs the President to remove any U.S. Armed Forces involved in hostilities within or against Cuba, unless such action is explicitly authorized by a declaration of war or a specific authorization from Congress. The bill is currently with the House Committee on Foreign Affairs for review.
Introduced Mar 24, 2026
This bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on March 24, 2026. After its introduction, it was immediately referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs. For the bill to become law, it must first be approved by this committee, then passed by the full House of Representatives, then passed by the Senate, and finally signed by the President. It is currently in the initial committee review stage.
If this bill becomes law, it would solidify that any engagement of U.S. Armed Forces in hostilities within or against Cuba must have specific authorization from Congress. This means the President would need a declaration of war or an Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF) from Congress before initiating such actions. This bill would not prevent the U.S. from defending itself against attack or conducting lawful counternarcotics operations.
Supporters Say
Supporters argue it upholds the Constitution by affirming Congress's sole power to declare war, preventing unauthorized military engagements.
Critics Say
Critics might argue it could restrict the President's ability to respond quickly to national security threats or protect U.S. interests.
Proponents of the bill emphasize that the Constitution grants Congress the power to declare war, and this resolution ensures that military action is not taken without explicit legislative consent, preventing potential executive overreach. The bill explicitly states it doesn't prevent the U.S. from defending itself or conducting lawful counternarcotics operations. Opponents might raise concerns about limiting presidential discretion in fast-moving international situations, though the bill does not address any specific ongoing hostilities in Cuba.