Limiting Emergency Powers Act of 2025
AI Summary
Limits the duration of national emergencies declared by the President to 30 days without Congressional approval.
What This Bill Does
This bill amends the National Emergencies Act to introduce a significant change in how national emergencies are handled in the United States. Under this proposed legislation, any national emergency declared by the President would automatically end 30 days after its declaration unless Congress passes a joint resolution affirming the emergency. Additionally, the bill outlines procedures for the termination of national emergencies, including the return of unobligated funds and the cessation of any powers or authorities exercised under the emergency. It also sets a two-year expiration on emergencies unless renewed by the President and affirmed by Congress.
Key Points
- National emergencies declared by the President will terminate after 30 days unless Congress affirms the declaration.
- Unobligated funds related to the emergency must be returned, and certain contracts terminated upon the emergency's termination.
- Presidentially declared emergencies are subject to a two-year expiration, requiring renewal and Congressional affirmation.
- Applies to future declarations and includes provisions for emergencies declared prior to the enactment of this bill.
Who Would Be Affected
- The President and executive branch, in their ability to declare and maintain national emergencies.
- Congress, which would have increased responsibility to affirm or terminate national emergencies.
- Federal agencies and contractors involved in emergency-related activities, due to potential termination of contracts and return of funds.
Potential Effects
- Could lead to more frequent Congressional oversight and involvement in the declaration and continuation of national emergencies.
- Might result in shorter durations of national emergencies, affecting the federal government's ability to respond to prolonged crises.
- Could increase the legislative workload, requiring timely action to affirm or terminate emergencies.