RESTRAIN Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Titus, Dina [D-NV-1]
- Committees
- Armed Services Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Nov 19, 2025
Bottom line
This bill seeks to codify a permanent ban on explosive nuclear weapons testing by the United States, reinforcing a long-standing moratorium while preserving the ability to conduct non-explosive subcritical tests for stockpile stewardship.
What it actually does
This bill amends the Atomic Energy Defense Act to explicitly prohibit the United States from conducting any explosive testing of nuclear weapons or any other nuclear explosion. It also restricts the use of federal funds for such activities, while clearly stating that the prohibition does not apply to subcritical nuclear tests, which are defined as tests of fissile materials not capable of sustaining an explosive nuclear chain reaction.
Proponents argue
Proponents argue this bill strengthens global non-proliferation efforts, reduces the risk of an arms race, and formalizes a de facto moratorium that has been in place for decades, demonstrating U.S. commitment to arms control. They emphasize that it does not compromise national security by explicitly permitting subcritical tests for maintaining the safety and reliability of the existing nuclear arsenal.
Opponents contend
Opponents might argue that a permanent, legally binding prohibition could limit future U.S. options for maintaining a credible nuclear deterrent, especially if other nations resume testing or if unforeseen issues arise with the existing stockpile that require explosive testing for resolution. They might also contend it could hinder the ability to develop new warhead designs if deemed necessary for national security.
The bill text is very short and straightforward, allowing for quick comprehension by any informed reader.
Section 2, amending Section 4210(a) of the Atomic Energy Defense Act
Prohibition on Explosive Nuclear Weapon Testing
This provision explicitly states that the United States is prohibited from conducting any explosive testing of a nuclear weapon or any other nuclear explosion. It replaces existing language in the Atomic Energy Defense Act to make this prohibition clear and absolute, formalizing the U.S.'s long-standing voluntary moratorium on such tests.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this codifies a long-standing U.S. moratorium, bolstering international non-proliferation norms and encouraging other nuclear powers to refrain from testing.
Critics contend
Critics might argue that a permanent ban could remove a critical tool for ensuring the reliability and safety of the nuclear arsenal in the long term, especially if new threats emerge or if the current stockpile ages unexpectedly.
Tradeoffs
Balances international non-proliferation goals and diplomatic leadership against the perceived need for flexibility in maintaining the nuclear deterrent through explosive testing.
Section 2, adding new subsection (c) to Section 4210 of the Atomic Energy Defense Act
Funding Prohibition for Explosive Nuclear Testing
This provision prohibits the use of any funds authorized for fiscal year 2026 or any subsequent fiscal year for conducting explosive testing of nuclear weapons or any other nuclear explosion. This reinforces the statutory prohibition by cutting off financial resources for such activities, ensuring the ban is fiscally enforced.
Section 2, adding new subsection (d) to Section 4210 of the Atomic Energy Defense Act
Clarification on Subcritical Nuclear Tests
This provision clarifies that the bill's prohibition on explosive testing does not limit the authority of the United States to conduct subcritical nuclear tests. It defines a 'subcritical nuclear test' as a nuclear test of fissile materials that are not capable of sustaining an explosive nuclear chain reaction, ensuring that stockpile stewardship activities can continue without explosive yield.