The gist

The HALT Act blocks funding for US nuclear test explosions without congressional approval and pushes for a global freeze on testing, producing, and deploying nuclear weapons.

Who wins, who loses

• Wins: arms control advocates, non-proliferation groups, communities near former nuclear test sites.
• Loses: defense contractors building new warhead designs; officials wanting to resume explosive testing.

What it does

• Bans use of any federal funds for explosive nuclear tests starting fiscal year 2026.
• Requires the President to file a stockpile report AND Congress to pass a joint resolution before any test.
• Sets US policy to negotiate a follow-on to the New START Treaty with Russia and other nuclear states.
• Urges Senate ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) and no-first-use commitments.

Why should I care?

Nine countries hold roughly 12,000 nuclear weapons. Supporters say freezing testing and production prevents a new arms race and reduces accidental war risk. Critics argue the US needs flexibility to test and modernize warheads as China and Russia expand arsenals, and that unilateral restraint weakens deterrence. Where do you land? Vote below and use "Tell Your Rep" to make sure your voice reaches Congress.