Let's Set Some Limits...
- First, the law clears the way for the President to authorize the production and distribution of defense articles for and to whichever country he thinks needs them.
- He can direct the sale, gifting, trading, leasing, lending (or whatever) of any of these things, but first has to consult the Chief of Staff of the Army, the Chief of Naval Operations of the Navy, or both.
- The President can only do this with $1.3 billion worth of goods. Anything beyond that needs approval from Congress.
- Also allowed is anything needed to make sure the defense articles work, including repairing them.
- Any defense information needed for the use of the defense articles is allowed to be given to foreign governments.
- The President can decide what kind of deal is made with each country.
- The Act is in effect until June 30th, 1943, or until Congress decides the Act isn't needed anymore.
- But if a deal was made before that date, the terms of the deal can be continued until July 1st, 1946.
- The Act can't be understood to allow U.S. ships to escort other ships.
- It also can't be understood to allow U.S. ships to enter combat areas, in violation of the Neutrality Act of 1939.