Sunset for the 2001 Authorization for Use of Military Force Act

Key Points

• This bill would repeal a law passed right after the September 11 attacks that allows the president to use military force against those responsible. Over the years, this law has been used to justify military actions in many different countries against various groups.
• Lawmakers from both parties who introduced the bill argue that the 2001 law is being used too broadly. They believe it is time for Congress to take back its constitutional responsibility to decide when and where the United States goes to war.
• If this bill becomes law, the 2001 military authorization would officially end 240 days after it is signed. This eight-month window is intended to give the military and the government time to transition or seek new specific approvals for ongoing missions.
• This change would not immediately stop all military operations, but it would require the president to come to Congress for new permission if they want to continue long-term military actions that were previously covered by the old law.