This bill would change federal law so that the United States cannot carry out explosive nuclear testing unless Congress approves it. The President must send Congress a written notification at least 180 days before any proposed explosive nuclear test. The notification must describe the test, explain the reasons for it (including whether there is a "technical need"), estimate timelines and costs, and may include a classified annex. If a test would be done because of a technical need, the bill creates an expedited joint-resolution process with set committee and floor timelines. If the proposed test is in response to a foreign state's explosive nuclear test, the bill requires a separate joint-resolution approval process and specifies that Senate passage requires a two-thirds vote. The bill defines "explosive nuclear testing" and says it does not include subcritical experiments or certain fusion experiments. The bill also says officials named in current law must determine whether a "technical need" exists and that the President must describe engagement with the state governor if testing would occur in a state.
No publicly available information.
The bill builds a clear role for congressional review and approval of any return to explosive nuclear testing. It requires specific written notifications, estimates of cost and timeline, and engagement with state officials when testing would occur in a state. It also sets committee deadlines and floor procedures so Congress must act within set time frames.
No publicly available information.