Panama Canal Repurchase Act of 2025

# Panama Canal Repurchase Act of 2025 - Summary **What the bill would do:** If passed, this bill would give the U.S. President authority to negotiate with Panama to buy back the Panama Canal. The President would have 180 days (about 6 months) after the bill becomes law to report to Congress on how negotiations are going, what obstacles might exist, and what the potential results could be. The bill itself doesn't commit any money or set terms—it simply authorizes the President to start talks. **Who it affects:** This would primarily affect U.S.-Panama relations and potentially American taxpayers (if any purchase were to eventually occur and be funded).

The Panama Canal is a crucial global shipping route, so international trade could be indirectly affected. The bill also gives Congress a role by requiring them to receive progress reports. **Current status:** The bill was introduced in the 119th Congress by Representative Dusty Johnson (R-SD) and is currently in committee, meaning it hasn't moved forward to a full vote in the House yet. No action has been taken beyond its initial introduction.