Bill Summary
The proposed legislation aims to restrict the use of U.S. military force in or against Cuba by prohibiting the expenditure of federal funds for such actions until December 31, 2026. The only exceptions to this prohibition would be if Congress formally declares war on Cuba or provides specific statutory authorization for military action in accordance with the War Powers Resolution. The legislation ensures that military force cannot be used without clear congressional approval, reinforcing the principle of legislative oversight in decisions of war. An exception is also included for actions that are consistent with certain provisions of the War Powers Resolution.
Possible Impacts
Here are three examples of how the legislation could affect people:
1. **Impact on Diplomatic Relations**: By prohibiting military action against Cuba, this legislation could encourage a more diplomatic approach to U.S.-Cuba relations. Citizens, particularly those with ties to Cuba, may benefit from increased dialogue and potential economic opportunities that might arise from improved relations, which could foster cultural exchanges and trade.
2. **Military Personnel and Families**: The prohibition on using military force in or against Cuba could provide peace of mind to military personnel and their families, knowing that they are less likely to be deployed to a conflict zone involving Cuba. This could reduce anxiety among service members and their loved ones, promoting stability in their personal lives.
3. **Political Activism and Advocacy**: This legislation could galvanize political activism among groups advocating for peace and diplomatic solutions rather than military interventions. Individuals and organizations may mobilize to support this legislative measure, leading to increased community engagement and activism around foreign policy issues, which can empower citizens to influence their government’s actions.
[Congressional Bills 119th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H.R. 8103 Introduced in House (IH)]
<DOC>
119th CONGRESS
2d Session
H. R. 8103
To prohibit the use of funds to use military force in or against Cuba,
and for other purposes.
_______________________________________________________________________
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
March 26, 2026
Ms. Jayapal (for herself, Mr. Meeks, Mr. Amo, Mr. Castro of Texas, Mr.
Garcia of Illinois, Ms. Jacobs, Mr. Johnson of Georgia, Ms. Kamlager-
Dove, Mr. McGovern, Ms. Norton, Mr. Pocan, Ms. Schakowsky, Ms.
Stansbury, Ms. Titus, Ms. Tlaib, Ms. Velazquez, Ms. Simon, Mr. Moulton,
and Mr. Jackson of Illinois) 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 Cuba,
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 CUBA.
(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 Republic of Cuba unless Congress has--
(1) declared war on Cuba; 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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