Sunset for the 2001 Authorization for Use of Military Force Act

# Sunset for the 2001 Authorization for Use of Military Force Act **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would establish an expiration date for the 2001 Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF), a law passed shortly after the September 11 attacks that gave the President broad power to use military force against terrorist organizations. The 2001 AUMF has been used to justify military operations in multiple countries over the past two decades. By adding a "sunset" clause, this bill would automatically end that authority on a specified date unless Congress votes to renew it, forcing lawmakers to periodically review and explicitly approve any continued military action rather than relying on a decades-old authorization. **Who It Affects and Key Provisions** The bill would primarily affect the President's ability to conduct military operations without seeking new Congressional approval each time, and it impacts all U.S. military personnel involved in counterterrorism operations worldwide.

It would require Congress to actively decide whether to continue authorizing military force, rather than letting the 2001 law remain in effect indefinitely. This gives lawmakers a mechanism to reassess whether the original authorization still fits current global threats and circumstances. **Current Status** As of now, the bill is in committee and has not advanced to a full House vote. The bill was introduced by Representative Pramila Jayapal, a Democrat from Washington.