Six Assurances to Taiwan Act

Key Points

• This bill turns six diplomatic promises made to Taiwan in 1982 into official U.S. law. These assurances include not setting a date to end arms sales, not consulting China on arms sales, not mediating between Taiwan and China, not revising the Taiwan Relations Act, not taking a position on Taiwan's sovereignty, and not pressuring Taiwan to negotiate with China.
• Congress would gain new review power over any executive action that could change these longstanding Taiwan commitments. Before pausing arms sales, negotiating with China about Taiwan's defense, or pressuring Taiwan to negotiate, the administration must formally notify Congress.
• After the administration notifies Congress, a mandatory waiting period of at least 30 days kicks in (60 days if submitted during summer recess). During this time, the government cannot move forward with the proposed change unless Congress passes a joint resolution approving it.
• If both chambers of Congress pass a joint resolution of disapproval, the proposed action is blocked entirely, even if the administration believes the change is necessary. This makes it very difficult for any future leader to unilaterally shift Taiwan policy.
• The bill is bipartisan, introduced by Senators Curtis (R) and Merkley (D), and frames peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait as matters of international concern and core U.S. interests. It declares that any unilateral change to the status quo without consent of both sides is unacceptable.

Votes

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Related Bills

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