No Outsourcing of National Assets to Treaty Organizations for Purchase Act; NO NATO for Purchase Act
Summary
H.R. 7088, also known as the "No Outsourcing of National Assets to Treaty Organizations for Purchase Act" or the "NO NATO for Purchase Act," aims to prevent any federal department or agency from using funds to purchase a NATO member country or NATO-protected territory. The bill explicitly references the North Atlantic Treaty signed in Washington on April 4, 1949. It was introduced in the House of Representatives on January 15, 2026, and referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs.
Expected Effects
The bill, if enacted, would prohibit the US government from purchasing any NATO member country or NATO-protected territory. This would prevent the potential transfer of sovereignty or control over such territories through financial transactions. The primary effect is to maintain the existing geopolitical landscape concerning NATO countries and territories.
Potential Benefits
- Prevents potential conflicts of interest arising from the US government owning or controlling NATO member countries.
- Reinforces the existing framework of international treaties and alliances.
- Could reassure allies that the US is committed to the current structure of NATO.
- May prevent potential misuse of federal funds for controversial acquisitions.
- Upholds national sovereignty and prevents potential erosion of international trust.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- May limit the US government's flexibility in future international negotiations or strategic alliances.
- Could be interpreted as a sign of distrust towards NATO allies, potentially straining relationships.
- Might prevent potentially beneficial acquisitions if unique opportunities arise.
- Could be seen as an overreaction to a hypothetical scenario, creating unnecessary restrictions.
- May not address other forms of influence or control that do not involve direct purchase.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general principles of national sovereignty and the power of Congress to regulate foreign affairs. Article I, Section 8, grants Congress the power to declare war, raise and support armies, and provide for the common defense. While the Constitution does not explicitly address the purchase of foreign territories, this bill could be seen as an exercise of congressional authority to define the scope of US foreign policy and prevent actions that could undermine national security or international relations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).