The War Powers Act is a federal law passed in 1973 that checks the president's power to commit the United States to an armed conflict without the consent of Congress.
Think of the War Powers Act as a leash on a dog. Just like how a leash controls where a dog can go, this act limits where and when the President can send troops into combat.
Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF): This is a specific type of legislation passed by Congress that gives the President authority to use military force against certain enemies or in response to specific events.
Checks and Balances: This term refers to the system in which each branch of government has some measure of influence over the other branches and may choose to block procedures from other branches. It helps ensure no one branch becomes too powerful.
Separation of Powers: This principle divides governmental responsibilities into distinct branches (legislative, executive, judicial) to limit any one branch from exercising core functions of another.
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.