House bill would require Congress to approve national emergency declarations

A bill was introduced in the House of Representatives that would change how national emergencies are declared. Currently, the President can declare a national emergency on their own authority. This bill would require the President to get approval from Congress before a declaration takes effect.

Why it matters: This is a structural change to executive power rather than a policy shift on a specific issue. If passed, it would prevent the President from unilaterally activating emergency powers, which often come with budgetary and regulatory flexibilities. However, as an introduced bill, it has no legal force and may not move forward.

Who it affects

• The President and the Executive Office

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This is a bill introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives, available on Congress.gov; readers should check the official text to see the specific conditions and exceptions proposed for congressional approval.

Agency: House
Source: Congress.gov — read the official document