Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HB525

Introduced
1/16/25  

Caption

Honduras Obstinately Neglects Defense and Risks Alienating Security Act or HONDURAS ActThis bill authorizes the President to suspend all assistance to Honduras if U.S. military and civilian personnel redeploy from Soto Cano Air Base as the result of the Honduran government's refusal to host such personnel at the base.

Impact

The proposed legislation has significant implications for the relationship between the United States and Honduras, especially in the context of military and security support. By suspending assistance, the bill could alter the dynamics of U.S.-Honduras relations, impacting cooperative efforts in various sectors such as anti-drug trafficking operations and regional security initiatives. This action may be interpreted as a response to perceived deficiencies in Honduras's handling of security matters, leading to a ripple effect on overall regional stability.

Summary

House Bill 525, also known as the HONDURAS Act, seeks to prohibit funding to the Government of the Republic of Honduras. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives by Mr. Ogles and Ms. Salazar and is primarily aimed at reducing financial assistance to Honduras following the government's refusal to host U.S. military and civilian personnel at Soto Cano Air Base. This strategic decision reflects concerns regarding Honduras's commitment to security cooperation and defense considerations in the region.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding HB525 is the debate on the efficacy and morality of withholding funding as a means to influence another nation's policies. Proponents argue that such measures are necessary to hold the Honduran government accountable and ensure they prioritize U.S. interests in defense and security. Conversely, critics may view the bill as an overly punitive measure that could exacerbate existing challenges in Honduras, including economic hardship and potential humanitarian crises, ultimately undermining long-term U.S. goals in Central America.

Congress_id

119-HR-525

Policy_area

International Affairs

Introduced_date

2025-01-16

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US HR1278

Affirming the importance of the survival of Garífuna culture and identity, condemning the violent and illegal appropriation of Garífuna territory, urging the Department of State and multilateral development banks to respect the rights of the Garífuna people, and calling on the Government of Honduras to fully comply with the resolutions of multilateral human rights bodies which mandate the return of Garífuna land and territory, and for other purposes.

US SJR107

A joint resolution to authorize the use of military force against the Islamic Republic of Iran if the President determines that the Islamic Republic of Iran is planning or conducts an attack against any former, current, or incoming United States Government official or senior military personnel.

US SB2226

National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 Securing Maritime Data from China Act of 2023 Military Service Promotion Act of 2023 Space Force Personnel Management Act Department of Defense Overdose Data Act of 2023

US HR1287

Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 8070) to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2025 for military activities of the Department of Defense, for military construction, and for defense activities of the Department of Energy, to prescribe military personnel strengths for such fiscal year; relating to the consideration of House Report 118-527 and an accompanying resolution; and for other purposes.

US HR1224

Condemning President Biden's threat to withhold aid and military assistance to Israel.

US HB10478

To ensure that foster children are able to use their Social Security benefits, Supplemental Security Income benefits, and other assets and benefits to address their needs and improve their lives.

US SB5611

A bill to support the national defense and economic security of the United States by supporting vessels, ports, and shipyards of the United States and the U.S. maritime workforce.

US HB10401

To promote military readiness by ensuring the Department of Defense retains the right to repair equipment it acquires and owns.

US HB97

Armed Forces Endangered Species Exemption Act This bill establishes exemptions from the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (ESA) for defense-related purposes. Specifically, the bill establishes exemptions from the ESA for (1) operations related to national defense, and (2) military personnel engaged in such operations. For example, the bill allows such personnel to take (e.g., harm or kill) endangered or threatened species. In addition, the bill expands restrictions on the Department of the Interior designating defense-related areas as critical habitat. It also exempts the Department of Defense from certain requirements to consult with Interior about critical habitats.

US SR748

A resolution expressing that the United States should not enter into any bilateral or multilateral agreement to provide security guarantees or long-term security assistance to Ukraine.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.