Bill Summary
The legislation is a bill that aims to restrict the use of federal funds for military action against Venezuela. It specifies that, from the date of its enactment until December 31, 2026, no government funds can be used for military operations in Venezuela unless Congress has either declared war or provided specific legislative authorization for such military action in accordance with the War Powers Resolution. There is an exception for military actions that comply with certain provisions of the War Powers Resolution. Essentially, the bill seeks to limit executive military authority in relation to Venezuela, ensuring that any military engagement requires congressional approval.
Possible Impacts
Here are three examples of how the legislation prohibiting the use of funds for military force in or against Venezuela could affect people:
1. **Impact on U.S.-Venezuela Relations**: By restricting the use of military force, this legislation could lead to a more diplomatic approach in addressing issues between the U.S. and Venezuela. This may benefit Venezuelan citizens by reducing the likelihood of military conflict, which can lead to loss of life, displacement, and further destabilization. It could also encourage negotiations and dialogue regarding humanitarian aid and economic support.
2. **Economic Consequences for Venezuelans**: The prohibition on military action may shift U.S. policy towards non-military forms of engagement, such as sanctions or economic aid. While this could help in addressing humanitarian needs, it might also mean that Venezuelans continue to suffer from economic hardships if sanctions remain in place. The legislation could lead to debates on how best to support the Venezuelan population without resorting to military intervention.
3. **Political Ramifications in the U.S.**: This legislation could influence domestic political dynamics by prompting discussions around the role of Congress in authorizing military action. It may empower anti-war voices and those advocating for a more restrained foreign policy, impacting public opinion and future elections. Citizens who prioritize peace and diplomatic solutions may feel more represented, while those supporting a stronger military stance may feel frustrated or marginalized.
[Congressional Bills 119th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H.R. 6915 Introduced in House (IH)]
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119th CONGRESS
1st Session
H. R. 6915
To prohibit the use of funds to use military force in or against
Venezuela, and for other purposes.
_______________________________________________________________________
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
December 19, 2025
Mr. Moulton (for himself, Mr. Smith of Washington, Mr. Meeks, Mr.
Himes, Mr. Lieu, Mr. Panetta, Mr. Crow, Mr. Golden of Maine, Ms.
Houlahan, Mr. Auchincloss, Mr. Ryan, Mr. Deluzio, Mr. Cisneros, Ms.
Goodlander, Mr. Tran, and Mr. Vindman) introduced the following bill;
which was referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and in addition
to the Committee on Armed Services, for a period to be subsequently
determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such
provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned
_______________________________________________________________________
A BILL
To prohibit the use of funds to use military force in or against
Venezuela, and for other purposes.
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
United States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. PROHIBITION ON USE OF FORCE IN OR AGAINST VENEZUELA.
(a) In General.--Except as provided in subsection (b), no funds
appropriated or otherwise made available for the Federal Government may
be obligated or expended during the period beginning on the date of the
enactment of this Act and ending on December 31, 2026, for any use of
military force in or against the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela
unless Congress has--
(1) declared war on Venezuela; or
(2) enacted specific statutory authorization for such use
of military force after the date of the enactment of this Act
that meets the requirements of the War Powers Resolution (50
U.S.C. 1541 et. seq.).
(b) Exception.--The prohibition under subsection (a) shall not
apply to a use of military force that is consistent with section 2(c)
of the War Powers Resolution (50 U.S.C. 1541(c)).
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