Reschenthaler Introduces Taiwan Invasion Prevention Act to Support our Ally Against Communist China’s Aggression
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Guy Reschenthaler (PA-14) introduced the Taiwan Invasion Prevention Act, sponsored by Senator Rick Scott (FL) in the Senate, to protect Taiwan from Communist China's growing aggression. The Taiwan Invasion Prevention Act further reinforces the U.S.-Taiwan relationship and strengthens Taiwan's ability to resist Communist China's aggressive policies and military actions. As a member of the Congressional Taiwan Caucus, Congressman Reschenthaler introduced this important legislation with Congressmen Mike Gallagher (WI-8), Michael Waltz (FL-6), Dan Crenshaw (TX-2), Tim Burchett (TN-2), Scott Perry (PA-10), and Thomas Tiffany (WI-7).
"In recent months, Communist China has escalated hostilities against Taiwan, a key economic and security partner of the United States," said Representative Guy Reschenthaler. "The Taiwan Invasion Prevention Act empowers and strengthens Taiwan by calling for a free trade agreement, increasing security cooperation with the U.S., and authorizing the president to use military force to defend Taiwan against a direct attack. I am proud to join Senator Rick Scott to introduce this critical legislation, which protects freedom, democracy, and our long-standing commitment to the Taiwanese people."
"It is no secret that General Secretary Xi is bent on world domination. The United States cannot sit back and let this happen, and that starts with supporting our peaceful and democratic ally Taiwan," said Senator Rick Scott. "The Taiwan Invasion Prevention Act discourages Communist China from using military force against a peaceful democratic power and strongly demonstrates our commitment to Taiwan and to the importance of freedom and democracy. The Biden Administration's appeasement policy toward Communist China is dangerous. If President Biden fails to stand up to General Secretary Xi, it will have absolutely devastating consequences for the national security of the U.S. and our allies. I urge my Democratic colleagues and the Biden Administration to take a stand for democracy and join Rep. Reschenthaler and I in holding Communist China accountable and protecting Taiwan."
The Taiwan Invasion Prevention Act:
- Reinforces the long-standing U.S. policy on Taiwan by strengthening Taiwan's ability to resist Communist China's aggressive moves.
- Helps Taiwan counter Communist China's military buildup across the Taiwan straits.
- Establishes a limited authorization for the President to use military force for the specific purpose of securing and protecting Taiwan against armed attack.
- Demands Communist China renounce the use or threat of military force in unifying with Taiwan.
- Establishes a series of security dialogues and combined military exercises between the U.S., Taiwan, and likeminded security partners.
- Requires planning for coordinated military action in case of an attack on Taiwan by the People's Republic of China.
- Advises Taiwan to dedicate additional domestic resources towards its own defense, including the acquisition of asymmetric defensive weapons, reform of Taiwan's reserve system, and engagement with the United States on cyber defense activities.
- Encourages the Department of Defense to send appropriate personnel to enroll in Taiwan's National Defense University.
- Urges the U.S. Trade Representative to enter into negotiations with Taiwan on a bilateral trade agreement.
- Encourages the U.S. President, or Secretary of State, to meet with the President of Taiwan on Taiwan soil.
- Welcomes the President of Taiwan to address a Joint Meeting of Congress.
In the 116th Congress, Congressman Reschenthaler introduced legislation supporting a free trade agreement with Taiwan. As a member of the China Task Force, Congressman Reschenthaler joined Ranking Member Michael McCaul of the House Foreign Affairs Committee releasing a 2020 report recommending further economic, security, and diplomatic partnerships with Taiwan.