TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The US Senate unanimously passed the Providing Our Regional Companions Upgraded Protection in Nefarious Environments (PORCUPINE) Act on Thursday.

The bill, introduced by Senators Pete Ricketts and Chris Coons, accelerates approval procedures for allies transferring military equipment to Taiwan, per CNA.

The legislation would treat Taiwan as a NATO Plus partner, alongside Japan, Australia, South Korea, Israel, and New Zealand. The status would allow for streamlined weapons sales.

The bill stipulates that the US secretary of state must assess the feasibility of establishing an expedited decision-making process for third-party transfers of defense articles and services to Taiwan from NATO members and NATO Plus countries within 90 days of its enactment.

Formosan Association for Public Affairs National President Dr. Su-mei Kao (林素梅) welcomed the bill’s passage, saying in a statement that it tells Beijing, “US Congress is united in its resolve to stand with Taiwan.” Kao said FAPA worked closely with Ricketts to advance the PORCUPINE Act and that FAPA members across 16 states met with more than 130 congressional offices in Washington, DC, to advocate for Taiwan.

She said FAPA would continue pushing the bill in the House to have the PORCUPINE Act signed into law.