Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States relating to the duration of authorizations of the use of force.
- Sponsor
- Rep. Barrett, Tom [R-MI-7]
- Committees
- Judiciary Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Apr 22, 2026
Bottom line
This joint resolution seeks to amend the Constitution to impose an automatic five-year expiration on future congressional authorizations for military force, absent a formal declaration of war.
What it actually does
This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment that would automatically terminate any future Act of Congress authorizing the use of military force by the United States outside its borders after five years, unless a formal declaration of war is in effect or the Act specifies an earlier termination date. This aims to prevent indefinite military engagements without periodic congressional re-evaluation.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue this amendment would restore Congress's constitutional war powers, prevent indefinite military engagements, and ensure regular legislative review and debate on ongoing conflicts, thereby increasing accountability and democratic oversight and preventing 'forever wars'.
Opponents contend
Opponents might argue that such a rigid time limit could hinder effective foreign policy, create uncertainty for military operations, and force premature withdrawals or necessitate frequent, potentially politically charged, reauthorizations during critical periods, potentially signaling weakness to adversaries and undermining national security.
The bill text is extremely short and easy to read, allowing ample time for comprehensive evaluation.
Page 1, lines 10-20
Five-Year Sunset for Authorizations of Military Force
This provision proposes a new article to the Constitution. It states that any future Act of Congress authorizing the use of military force by the United States outside of its borders, without an accompanying declaration of war, will automatically expire after five years from its enactment date. Alternatively, if the Act itself specifies an earlier termination date, that date will apply. This ensures that Authorizations for Use of Military Force (AUMFs) cannot remain in effect indefinitely without periodic congressional re-evaluation and reauthorization.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision is crucial for restoring the constitutional balance of power, ensuring that decisions of war and peace are not left to the Executive indefinitely without legislative consent. It forces Congress to regularly debate and vote on the continuation of military conflicts, preventing 'forever wars' and enhancing democratic accountability.
Critics contend
Critics might contend that a fixed five-year sunset could introduce instability into foreign policy and military planning. It could create a perception of weakness or indecision to adversaries, and force difficult reauthorization votes during sensitive operational periods, potentially undermining ongoing missions and national security interests.
Tradeoffs
The provision balances the desire for increased congressional oversight and accountability in military engagements against concerns about potential operational rigidity and the continuity of foreign policy. It trades executive flexibility for legislative control over prolonged military actions.