New Hampshire 2026 Regular Session

New Hampshire House Bill HR21

Introduced
11/7/25  
Refer
11/7/25  

Caption

Urging New Hampshire's congressional delegation to support the repeal of the 2001 Authorization for Use of Military Force.

Impact

The discussion surrounding HR21 reflects a recognition of the potential consequences of indefinite military authorizations, which can bypass the necessary checks and balances provided by Congress. The resolution emphasizes the importance of maintaining constitutional governance, where Congress holds the sole authority to declare war. This move can significantly impact how military actions are authorized and reviewed, ensuring that future engagements are subject to legislative approval, thus reasserting the legislative branch's role in critical decisions affecting the nation’s military involvement.

Summary

House Resolution 21 urges New Hampshire's congressional delegation to support the repeal of the 2001 and 2002 Authorizations for Use of Military Force (AUMF). The resolution highlights the overuse of these authorizations by successive administrations to justify military actions that extend beyond their original intent, often leading to what are described as 'forever wars'. By addressing the need to repeal these outdated authorizations, the resolution aims to restore congressional authority in matters of war and military engagement, thereby aligning military actions with contemporary national security needs.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HR21 appears to be largely positive among constituents who advocate for peace and a responsible approach to military engagements. There is a growing bipartisan support for repealing these AUMFs as evidenced by past votes in Congress showing a commitment to re-evaluating military authorizations. However, some contingent may view outright repeal with caution, concerned about the implications for national security and defense readiness.

Contention

Notwithstanding the positive sentiment, some contention exists regarding the practicality of repealing long-standing military authorizations. Opponents of repeal might argue that these authorizations provide necessary flexibility for the executive branch to respond to emergent threats. Furthermore, concerns may arise about what framework would replace these authorizations and how Congress can effectively address military readiness while adhering to constitutional mandates.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NH HR15

Urging New Hampshire's congressional representatives to advocate for a change in the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's policy.

NH HR18

Urging the New Hampshire congressional delegation to sponsor legislation relative to, and urging the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to adopt regulations, allowing for small scale and very small slaughter plants to use the Federal Meat Inspection Acts Custom Exempt meat processing inspection criteria with a third-party inspector present at slaughter, so that processed beef, pork, lamb, and chevron (goat meat) can be sold as individual cuts directly from the farm producer to the end consumer.

NH HCR8

Urging Congress to find that the Piscataqua River and Portsmouth Harbor lie within the state of New Hampshire.

NH HB104

Relative to requiring an official declaration of war for the activation of the New Hampshire national guard in a foreign state.

NH HR12

Urging Congress to amend the Smith-Mundt Modernization Act of 2013.

NH HB524

Repealing the New Hampshire vaccine association.

NH HR11

Urging the United States government to investigate allegations of abuse of minorities, especially Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, and other religious minorities by the interim government of Bangladesh.

NH HB118

Repealing certain committees and commissions and relative to the membership of the New Hampshire rare disease advisory council.

NH HB120

Relative to transferring statutory authority from the department of education to the department of military affairs and veterans services regarding educational support services.

NH HCR5

Rescinding House Concurrent Resolution No. 40 passed by the 2012 New Hampshire General Court asking that Congress call a convention under Article V of the United States Constitution.

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NJ SR63

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NJ AR22

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