The House of Representatives, under Republican control, has approved the No Tax Dollars for Terrorists Act (H.R. 260), which seeks to deter international funding for the Taliban. This bill, introduced by Rep. Tim Burchett (R-TN), asserts that U.S. foreign policy must reject foreign assistance to the Taliban, particularly from nations and NGOs that benefit from American aid.
Burchett stated on the House floor that almost all cash aid sent to Afghanistan ultimately supports the Taliban. The legislation mandates that the Secretary of State formulate a strategy within 180 days to prevent such funding, assist Afghan women and former U.S. allies, and provide regular updates to Congress. Although the bill was primarily championed by Republicans, it garnered bipartisan recognition.
Rep. Jonathan Jackson (D-IL) voiced his support for its objectives but criticized the Trump administration for its lack of transparency concerning Afghanistan. The measure was passed by a voice vote and is now headed to the Senate.
In another legislative action, the House approved the Protecting American Energy Production Act with a vote of 226–188. This bill, authored by Rep. August Pfluger (R-TX), would prevent any president from enacting a moratorium on hydraulic fracturing (fracking) without congressional consent. The legislation is designed to obstruct future executive actions similar to those implemented during the Biden administration, which included limitations on oil and gas drilling.
Republicans unanimously backed the bill, while the majority of Democrats opposed it. Pfluger contended that the measure is essential for safeguarding U.S. energy independence. Both pieces of legislation illustrate a broader Republican agenda centered on national security and energy policy, especially in light of a potential return of a Trump presidency.