Restricting First Use of Nuclear Weapons Act of 2025

The Restricting First Use of Nuclear Weapons Act of 2025 would prohibit the use of federal funds for a first-use nuclear strike unless Congress explicitly authorizes it through a declaration of war. A first-use nuclear strike is defined as a nuclear attack against an enemy without confirmation that the United States, its territories, or its allies have already been struck with nuclear weapons.

If enacted, this bill would change the current authority structure for nuclear weapons use by requiring congressional approval before the president could initiate a nuclear first strike. Currently, the president has broad authority over military operations. This legislation would shift that power by mandating explicit congressional authorization through the formal declaration of war process before federal funds could support such an action.

The bill is currently in the Senate committee stage and has not yet been voted on by the full chamber. Its practical impact would depend on how courts and future administrations interpret the relationship between this funding restriction and presidential war powers.