Measure would require Defense secretary to certify legality before any offensive nuclear action not tied to an emergency

Organ Mountain News report

WASHINGTON - U.S. Rep. Gabe Vasquez announced support this week for legislation that would restrict a president’s ability to launch a first-use nuclear strike without congressional oversight.

Vasquez said the Nuclear First-Strike Security Act of 2025 would require the Secretary of Defense to certify to Congress that any offensive use of nuclear weapons is valid and legal before it can proceed.

“This bill is a commonsense step to ensure no single President can use nuclear weapons offensively to escalate a conflict that could affect the entire world without first making it clear to Congress why using nuclear weapons is valid and legal,” Vasquez said in a statement.

The bill would prohibit a president from ordering a nuclear first strike without that certification, while preserving authority to respond in emergency situations, including a nuclear attack, a declared war or a launch-on-warning scenario.

Vasquez said the measure would restore congressional oversight and prevent unilateral escalation of military conflict.

“Unchecked power in matters of war risks both lives and trust in our democracy,” he said. “This legislation restores that essential check and helps prevent unnecessary escalation that goes against the will of the American people.”

The bill also includes exceptions to ensure it does not interfere with the country’s ability to defend itself or its allies from a nuclear attack.

Vasquez said his support for the legislation builds on previous actions related to the conflict in Iran, including voting for an Iran War Powers Resolution, sending letters to the administration about energy costs and calling for greater transparency from the Department of Defense.