# What This Bill Does: A "No First Use" Nuclear Weapons Policy

This bill would establish an official U.S. policy stating that America will never be the first to use nuclear weapons in a conflict. In other words, the United States would only use nuclear weapons if another country attacked us with nuclear weapons first. Right now, the U.S. doesn't have this as an official, binding policy—military leaders have kept the option open to use nuclear weapons first if they believe it's necessary, even against countries that don't have nuclear weapons.

The practical effect of this bill would be to tie the hands of the President and military commanders by making it illegal to launch a nuclear attack unless the U.S. has already been hit with nuclear weapons. Supporters argue this would reduce the risk of nuclear war by making it clear we won't start one, potentially encouraging other nuclear powers to adopt similar policies. It could also save money by reducing the need for certain types of nuclear weapons designed for first-strike attacks. Critics worry it could weaken America's ability to deter threats or respond to extreme situations, since adversaries would know we've ruled out using nuclear weapons first no matter what happens.

This bill would primarily affect military strategy and defense policy at the highest levels of government. It wouldn't directly change anything in most Americans' daily lives, but it represents a significant shift in how the U.S. approaches nuclear weapons—moving from "we might use them first if needed" to "we will only use them if attacked with them first." The bill would require Congress to approve this new policy, giving lawmakers a say in one of the most consequential decisions about national security.

A bill to establish the policy of the United States regarding the no-first-use of nuclear weapons.

Warren, Elizabeth

 <p>This bill establishes that it is U.S. policy to not use nuclear weapons first.</p>