Silver Shield Act of 2025

Improved Accountability for Defense Exports: The bill establishes the Silver Shield program to monitor whether U.S. defense articles are used to commit genocide, crimes against humanity, or violations of international law (Section 2(a)(2)).

Enhanced Protection for Civilians: The bill amends the Arms Export Control Act to include the "safety of civilians" as a goal for promoting world peace (Section 3(b)(1)(A)).

Clearer Rules for Military Sales: The bill adds a requirement that military sales must not be used for the commission of serious violations of international humanitarian or human rights law (Section 3(c)).

Use of Diverse Information Sources: The program will utilize various information sources, such as satellite imagery, eyewitness interviews, and reports from non-governmental organizations, to ensure accurate monitoring (Section 2(a)(2)(E)).

Expert Oversight: The President is required to establish an external advisory board made up of recognized academic and non-governmental experts to guide research and investigative best practices (Section 2(b)).

Mandatory Determination of Ineligibility: If the program determines that defense articles were used to commit serious violations, it requires a determination of ineligibility for the recipient, which must be completed within a 180-day timeline (Section 2(a)(2)(C)).

Increased Administrative Requirements for Foreign Countries: Before authorizing sales or transfers, the Secretary of State must enter into written agreements with foreign governments or international organizations (Section 3(a)(1)).