The U.S. House Appropriations Committee has passed a spending bill that sets aside US$500 million in military assistance for Taiwan. The body voted 35-27 in favor of the law on Wednesday, April 28.

The 2027 National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Act allocates around 6 percent less funding than last year to reflect the committee’s “America First” principle. The committee said that despite the cuts, the bill maintains robust support for U.S. allies such as Israel, Jordan, Egypt and Taiwan. 

Committee member and House Representative Mario Díaz-Balart said the bill sets aside US$1.8 billion for Indo-Pacific partners. Besides Taiwan, that includes the Philippines and Pacific island countries.

The bill must now pass the full House of Representatives and the Senate before being sent to President Donald Trump for signature.