Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HJR18

Introduced
1/12/23  

Caption

AUMF CARTEL Influence Resolution Authorization for the Use of Military Force to Combat, Attack, Resist, Target, Eliminate, and Limit Influence Resolution

Impact

If enacted, HJR18 would grant the President broad authority to act against foreign entities responsible for drug trafficking and violence that affects U.S. territories. The resolution allows military action against those who have violated the Controlled Substances Act, and it specifically targets organizations that engage in violence against U.S. law enforcement. This will potentially reshape U.S. foreign policy regarding military engagement and drug trafficking, underlining national security concerns regarding border stability and public health due to the opioid crisis.

Summary

HJR18, known as the Authorization for the Use of Military Force to Combat, Attack, Resist, Target, Eliminate, and Limit Influence Resolution, seeks to empower the President of the United States to use military force against foreign organizations and individuals involved in the trafficking of fentanyl and related substances into the U.S. This resolution acknowledges the significant death toll associated with fentanyl use in the United States, highlighting that approximately 80,000 Americans die annually from fentanyl overdoses, with a particular emphasis on young men aged 18 to 45. The bill is a legislative response to the increasing violence and destabilization attributed to armed cartels such as the Sinaloa Cartel and Jalisco New Generation Cartel in the Western Hemisphere.

Contention

There are notable points of contention surrounding HJR18, particularly regarding the implications of military intervention in drug-related issues. Critics may argue that military force might not address the root causes of drug trafficking and could lead to further violence and destabilization in affected regions. The resolution also raises concerns about the extension of military power, with opponents emphasizing the importance of diplomatic measures over military solutions. Additionally, the provision that authorizes the use of force against foreign entities may provoke tensions with sovereign nations should such actions be misinterpreted or deemed aggressive.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

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