3 Lawmakers Act to Halt Military Aid to Contras

Three members of Congress, saying the Administration has a “losing policy” in Central America, introduced legislation Wednesday to halt $40 million in military aid to the Nicaraguan contras.

“Aid to the contras and the military approach to the problems in Central America is a six-year policy of failure,” Rep. Bruce A. Morrison (D-Conn.) said.

The legislation seeks to halt the final release of $40 million in military aid to the rebels, which was approved by Congress last year as part of a $100-million aid package.

Under the law, President Reagan must report to Congress by Sunday on the prospects for negotiations to end the conflict. Most expect he will report no movement in the talks and seek the release of the $40 million to support the contras.

Congress can then pass a resolution to deny the $40-million installment but that would probably be vetoed by Reagan.

Morrison and many opponents of the aid said they doubt they have the necessary two-thirds vote in each chamber to override a veto.

Other sponsors of the bill include Reps. Stewart B. McKinney (R-Conn.) and Sam Gejdenson (D-Conn.). A similar bill was introduced earlier in the Senate by Sens. Christopher J. Dodd (D-Conn.) and Lowell P. Weicker Jr. (R-Conn.).