No Nuclear Testing Without Approval Act

Congress must approve nuclear tests

If enacted, the bill would bar the United States from doing explosive nuclear tests after enactment except in two cases. Testing could occur if a foreign state tests (this path requires a joint resolution enacted into law and a two-thirds Senate vote) or if all named officials find a "technical need" for a test. The President would have to notify Congress at least 180 days before a proposed test in unclassified form (classified annex allowed) with reasons, cost and timeline estimates, alternatives considered, and state engagement. Any test for which notice was given would need a joint resolution approved by Congress before it could happen. The bill also defines what counts as an "explosive nuclear test" (excluding subcritical experiments, laser fusion, and similar experiments) and sets how Members may introduce, refer, and fast-track approval resolutions, including 60-day committee deadlines, a House scheduling deadline by the 120th day, 24 hours of House debate split equally, and a 10-hour Senate limit with no amendments for the expedited track.