NO SELF Act
- Sponsor
- Sen. Booker, Cory A. [D-NJ]
- Committees
- Armed Services Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Sep 30, 2026
Bottom line
The NO SELF Act seeks to prevent the naming of Naval vessels after sitting Presidents or Vice Presidents, reserving such honors for individuals no longer in office.
What it actually does
This bill prohibits the Secretary of the Navy from naming or renaming any Naval vessel after an individual who is currently serving as the President or Vice President of the United States. It explicitly clarifies that this restriction does not apply to former Presidents or Vice Presidents, allowing vessels to be named in their honor once they have left office. The legislation aims to ensure that such significant honors are bestowed based on a completed legacy rather than a current term.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that naming Naval vessels should be a posthumous or post-service honor, reflecting a completed legacy rather than a current term. They contend that this practice avoids the appearance of self-aggrandizement or political opportunism, ensuring that such significant honors are bestowed based on a full assessment of an individual's contributions after their time in office. It promotes a sense of historical perspective and decorum in recognizing national figures.
Opponents contend
Opponents might argue that the current system allows for flexibility and timely recognition of a President or Vice President's leadership, especially during periods of significant national service or wartime. They might contend that restricting this practice limits the discretion of the Secretary of the Navy and could be seen as an unnecessary constraint on a traditional honor. Furthermore, they might argue that the decision should remain with the Executive branch, reflecting the will of the current administration.
The bill is exceptionally short and clear, making it very accessible for any reader to understand its provisions quickly.
Section 2(a) and (b)
Prohibition on Naming Naval Vessels for Sitting Presidents or Vice Presidents
This section establishes a clear rule that the U.S. Navy cannot name or rename any of its ships after someone who is currently serving as President or Vice President. It also clarifies that this restriction only applies while they are in office, meaning that once a President or Vice President has left their position, a Naval vessel could still be named in their honor.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision ensures that the honor of naming a Naval vessel is reserved for individuals whose full legacy can be assessed, free from the political implications of current office. It upholds a principle of historical reflection over contemporary political recognition.
Critics contend
Critics might argue that this provision unnecessarily limits the Secretary of the Navy's authority to honor deserving leaders at any point in their service, potentially delaying recognition that could be meaningful during their tenure. They may view it as a minor issue that doesn't require legislative intervention.
Tradeoffs
The bill balances the desire for timely recognition of leadership against the principle of historical perspective and avoiding the appearance of self-congratulation. It trades immediate symbolic honors for a more considered, post-service assessment of an individual's contributions.