H.R.2113 - America Supports Taiwan Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2113, the "America Supports Taiwan Act," mandates that U.S. government agencies use the term "Taiwan" instead of "Chinese Taipei," except in specific historical or international organizational contexts. The bill expresses Congressional findings regarding China's posture toward Taiwan and reaffirms U.S. commitments under the Taiwan Relations Act. It aims to counter what Congress perceives as China's efforts to undermine Taiwan's autonomy and international standing.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill would be a shift in the language used by U.S. government agencies when referring to Taiwan. This change is intended to signal stronger U.S. support for Taiwan's distinct identity. It also aims to push back against China's narrative that Taiwan is merely a region of the People's Republic of China.
Potential Benefits
- Strengthened symbolic support for Taiwan, potentially bolstering its international standing.
- Clearer communication of U.S. policy, reducing ambiguity in the U.S. position on Taiwan.
- Alignment of U.S. terminology with the preferences of many people in Taiwan.
- Reinforcement of U.S. commitments under the Taiwan Relations Act.
- Discouragement of coercive actions by China against Taiwan by signaling U.S. resolve.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased tensions with China, which may view the change in terminology as a challenge to its sovereignty claims.
- Risk of alienating China, which could lead to negative consequences for U.S.-China relations on other fronts (e.g., trade, climate change).
- Limited practical impact beyond symbolic value; the name change itself does not provide material support to Taiwan.
- Possible complications in international organizations where "Chinese Taipei" is the accepted term for Taiwan's participation.
- May be perceived as performative rather than substantive support, potentially undermining U.S. credibility if not accompanied by concrete actions.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the U.S. Constitution is primarily related to the powers of Congress to conduct foreign policy. Article I grants Congress the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations and to declare war, implying a broad authority to shape U.S. foreign relations. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or limitations. However, the potential impact on international relations could indirectly affect the nation's security and economic well-being.
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).