(a) Readiness posture required 
Commencing not later than October 1, 2006, the Secretary of Energy shall achieve, and thereafter maintain, a readiness posture of not more than 18 months for resumption by the United States of underground tests of nuclear weapons.

(b) Description of requirement 
For purposes of this section, a readiness posture of not more than 18 months for resumption by the United States of underground tests of nuclear weapons is achieved when the Department of Energy has the capability to resume such tests, if directed by the President to resume such tests, not later than 18 months after the date on which the President so directs.