Plain Language Summary
# STAND Act Summary **What the Bill Does** The STAND Act would temporarily freeze federal spending on foreign aid for 60 days after a major natural disaster is officially declared by the President. During this period, the State Department and U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) would be prohibited from spending money on bilateral aid (direct country-to-country assistance), multilateral aid (through international organizations), and humanitarian non-defense aid. Congress could override this freeze if both chambers pass a joint resolution approving continued foreign aid spending. **Who It Affects** This bill would affect foreign aid recipients and U.S.
international development programs. The intent appears to be redirecting resources toward domestic disaster relief efforts. The freeze would apply to humanitarian assistance and development programs abroad, though military and defense-related aid would not be affected. **Current Status** The bill is currently in committee and has not yet been voted on. As a House measure in the 119th Congress, it requires committee approval before advancing to a full House vote.
CRS Official Summary
Securing Taxpayer Assistance during Natural Disasters Act or the STAND ActThis bill prohibits the Department of State and the U.S. Agency for International Development from obligating or expending federal funds for bilateral, multilateral, or humanitarian non-defense foreign assistance within the first 60 days following a presidentially declared major disaster. The prohibition may be waived if a joint resolution of Congress providing for such a waiver is enacted into law.
Latest Action
Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.