H.R.es317 - Urging the United States to lead the world back from the brink of nuclear war and halt and reverse the nuclear arms race. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.Res.317 urges the United States to take a leading role in reducing the risk of nuclear war and reversing the nuclear arms race. The resolution calls for negotiations with other nuclear-armed states to reduce and eliminate nuclear arsenals. It also advocates for policies such as renouncing the first use of nuclear weapons and ending the 'hair-trigger alert' posture.
Expected Effects
If passed and acted upon, this resolution could lead to a shift in U.S. nuclear policy, prioritizing de-escalation and arms control. This could involve diplomatic efforts with countries like Russia and China. The resolution also could influence budget allocations, potentially redirecting funds from nuclear modernization to other areas.
Potential Benefits
- Reduced risk of nuclear war.
- Potential for improved international relations.
- Savings from reduced nuclear weapons spending could be reallocated to other areas.
- Improved public health by addressing environmental contamination from nuclear weapons production.
- A just economic transition for workers in the nuclear weapons industry.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential weakening of U.S. deterrence capabilities.
- Risk of non-compliance by other nuclear-armed states.
- Job losses in the nuclear weapons industry without adequate transition programs.
- Increased vulnerability if arms control agreements are not effectively verified.
- Possible perception of U.S. weakness on the global stage.
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution's call for arms control and disarmament aligns with the President's power to conduct foreign policy and negotiate treaties, as outlined in Article II, Section 2 of the Constitution. However, Congress's role in providing for the common defense (Article I, Section 8) could be interpreted as requiring a strong military, including a nuclear deterrent, potentially creating tension with the resolution's goals. The resolution does not infringe upon individual rights or freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).