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WASHINGTON, DC - Today, Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-12) welcomed the passage of H.R. 256, to repeal the Authorization for Use of Military Force Against Iraq Resolution of 2002.

Congress passed the 2002 Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF) to address threats from the Saddam Hussein Regime in Iraq, allowing the President to enforce military action whenever necessary and appropriate to defend the United States. Now, nearly 10 years after the Iraq war ended, this AUMF is still in effect, without any expiration, and could allow for unwarranted war declarations and military action.

“Congress has passed provisions of this legislation three times now to repeal the 2002 AUMF, and we must call on our Senate colleagues to finally repeal this obsolete AUMF once and for all. It is our collective obligation to support our servicemembers’ enduring sacrifice with a renewed and robust debate about the war here at home.

“We need Congress to take the reigns in ensuring our war declarations are constitutional and necessary. Almost 20 years since its enactment and nearly 10 years since the end of the Iraq war, the 2002 AUMF no longer serves a purpose and leaves opportunity for more endless wars.

“The House passage of this legislation is a critical step to also repealing the 2001 AUMF, which continues to set the precedent that any President could launch our nation into war without Congressional approval. Repealing both the 2001 and 2002 AUMFs is critical in ensuring checks and balances and also providing our servicemembers and their families the certainty they deserve.”

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