Curtis, Cortez Masto Introduce Bipartisan Taiwan Relations Reinforcement Act

Legislation would require annual reporting to Congress to better assess U.S. ability to deter Chinese aggression against Taiwan
WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) introduced theTaiwan Relations Reinforcement Act, bipartisan legislation to mark the 47thanniversary of theTaiwan Relations Act, strengthen congressional oversight, and ensure the United States is fully prepared to uphold its commitments under the landmark law, which has served asthe cornerstone of U.S.-Taiwan relations since its adoption in 1979. Amid rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific, primarily from China, this legislation would require the Secretary of War, in coordination with U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, to submit an annual report to Congress assessing America’s ability to deter aggression against Taiwan and maintain stability in the region.
“Since theTaiwan Relations Actbecame law in 1979, Congress has played the leading role in the U.S.-Taiwan relationship,”said Senator Curtis.“This bill affirms that legacy by ensuring Congress has the information it needs to evaluate whether our military posture, industrial base, and alliances are sufficient to deter conflict and preserve peace in the Taiwan Strait.”
“As the Chinese Communist Party tries to exert more influence in the Indo-Pacific, the United States remains committed to defending our ally Taiwan and deterring China’s aggression. To do so, we need to make sure our military is ready and capable to meet its obligations to defend Taiwan. We cannot wait for the first shot to catch us unaware,”said Senator Cortez Masto.
Background:
TheTaiwan Relations Act,which became law 47 years ago this week, mandates that the U.S. will provide Taiwan with defensive weapons and maintain the military capability to prevent China from using force to jeopardize Taiwan.
TheTaiwan Relations Reinforcement Actmandates a comprehensive review of U.S. capabilities to ensure we can meet that requirement in an increasingly threatening world, including:
The bill also requires identification of capability gaps and recommendations for addressing shortfalls through budgetary, operational, and legislative changes over the coming years.
Importantly, the bill does not authorize the use of military force and does not alter existing statutory requirements under theTaiwan Relations Act. The legislation reflects growing bipartisan recognition of the importance of deterrence and strategic readiness in maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.
The full text of the bill is availablehere.
Senator Curtis recently led a bipartisan delegation to Taiwan to emphasize Congress’ leading role in the U.S.-Taiwan relationship and affirm American support for boosted defense spending and cooperation. Read morehere.