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This bill clarifies and formally establishes the purposes of U.S. humanitarian aid programs focused on clearing landmines, unexploded ordnance, and securing weapons stockpiles in countries affected by conflict. The legislation honors the legacy of former Senator Patrick Leahy, who championed demining efforts during his 48 years in the Senate, and recognizes that the United States has invested over $4.6 billion in conventional weapons destruction assistance to more than 120 countries since 1993. The bill specifies that these programs serve important humanitarian and security goals, including returning cleared land to productive use for agriculture and development, protecting civilians through risk education, preventing weapons diversion to terrorist groups, and building partnerships with key allies. By addressing landmine threats and stockpile management, these programs also help tackle broader U.S. interests such as food security and reducing forced migration. The legislation does not authorize new funding but rather clarifies the existing statutory framework governing these assistance activities already administered by the State Department, Defense Department, and USAID.

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