H.R. 8649 · In committee · International Affairs

Expanding the Defense Industrial Base Sales Act

Sponsor: Michael Baumgartner (R-WA)

What it does

• Amends the Arms Export Control Act to authorize the use of foreign military financing to directly fund purchases of defense articles and services from private defense contractors, not just the U.S. Government.
• Requires the Secretary of State to approve the extension of this authority to any foreign country or international organization, in consultation with the Secretary of Defense.
• Directs the Secretary of State to prescribe regulations within 180 days to implement this section, including procedures for review, audit standards, export control compliance, and nontraditional defense company participation.

Latest action

May 13, 2026: Ordered to be Reported Unfavorably by the Yeas and Nays: 23 - 23.

Committee: House Foreign Affairs