Wittman Introduces Bipartisan PORCUPINE Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01) introduced the Providing Our Regional Companions Upgraded Protection in Nefarious Environments (PORCUPINE) Act, bipartisan legislation that will expedite the arms procurement process for Taiwan, a key Indo-Pacific partner. The PORCUPINE Act is co-led by Congressmen Don Davis (NC-01), Ami Bera (CA-06), and Ryan Mackenzie (PA-07).

"Taiwan is at the tip of the spear in our effort to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific region and serves as a key regional partner to the United States," said Rep. Wittman. "Our strategic partners in the Indo-Pacific are facing increasing aggression by the CCP - now more than ever we must ensure Taiwan has the military capabilities to defend itself. I am proud to introduce the bipartisan PORCUPINE Act, which will cut burdensome regulations and enable a quicker arms procurement process for our Taiwanese partners."

"Taiwan stands on the front lines of the struggle between democracy and authoritarianism. As pressure from the Chinese Communist Party continues to mount, Taiwan more than ever needs the resources to defend its sovereignty and the independence of its people. A stronger Taiwan deters aggression, protects democracy, and makes the United States safer," said Congressman Don Davis.

"As a co-chair of the Congressional Taiwan Caucus, I'm proud to support the bipartisan PORCUPINE Act," said Representative Bera. "Taiwan is a vibrant democracy and a vital partner in the Indo-Pacific. At a time when Taiwan faces growing threats from the PRC, we must ensure Taiwan can quickly access the defensive capabilities it needs to protect its people and uphold regional stability. This bill strengthens our commitment to Taiwan's self-defense and reaffirms that the United States stands with our democratic partners."

"At a time when security challenges in the Indo-Pacific are growing, we need to ensure our partners can access defensive capabilities without unnecessary delays," said Congressman Ryan Mackenzie. "The PORCUPINE Act is a commonsense, bipartisan way to cut through red tape, strengthen deterrence, and support Taiwan's ability to defend itself. By streamlining certification and licensing for trusted allies, this bill promotes stability in the region and helps prevent conflict."

Specifically, The PORCUPINE Act:

• Defines Taiwan as a "NATO-plus" country - meaning shorter approval timelines for arms sales to Taiwan and a higher cost threshold requiring approval.

• Gives the President the authority to reduce or waive certain fees for arms sales to Taiwan.

• Streamlines reporting requirements for certain arms sales.

• Requires the State Department to conduct a feasibility assessment for expediting licenses for allies to transfer military equipment to Taiwan.

Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) introduced companion legislation, which passed out of the Senate in December 2025.