Concurrent resolution

Definition

A concurrent resolution is a legislative measure passed by both the House of Representatives and the Senate that does not require the President's approval and is used to address matters affecting both chambers. These resolutions are often used for expressing sentiments, establishing joint rules, or making decisions on procedural issues without the force of law.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Concurrent resolutions are mainly used to express the collective opinion of Congress or to regulate internal affairs, such as setting the annual budget for Congress.
2. These resolutions do not have the force of law and are not submitted to the President for approval.
3. Unlike bills, concurrent resolutions cannot be vetoed and are typically simpler and quicker to pass.
4. The use of concurrent resolutions can be seen in actions like setting the date for the State of the Union Address or authorizing commemorative events.
5. Both chambers must approve a concurrent resolution in identical form for it to be enacted, demonstrating a cooperative legislative process.

Review Questions

• How do concurrent resolutions differ from bills in terms of legislative process and significance?
  • Concurrent resolutions differ from bills primarily in that they do not require the President's signature and cannot become law. They are used mainly to express opinions or make decisions regarding internal Congressional procedures rather than enacting legal statutes. This difference highlights the unique role of concurrent resolutions in facilitating cooperation and communication between the two chambers without altering existing laws.
• Discuss the impact of concurrent resolutions on Congressional operations and decision-making.
  • Concurrent resolutions play a significant role in Congressional operations by allowing both chambers to address procedural matters efficiently. They enable Congress to express collective opinions on important issues without involving the President, thus streamlining decision-making processes. For example, concurrent resolutions can set rules for joint sessions or decide on budgets for Congressional activities, which helps maintain order and structure within the legislative framework.
• Evaluate the role of concurrent resolutions in shaping public policy versus their limitations compared to other legislative measures.
  • Concurrent resolutions serve as a tool for shaping public policy primarily through expressing Congress's unified stance on various issues. However, their limitations are clear as they do not carry legal weight and cannot enact laws. This means while they can influence public discourse and highlight issues, they cannot directly result in legal changes or funding allocations. Thus, while important for expressing collective views, their impact on tangible policy outcomes is constrained when compared to bills and joint resolutions that require presidential approval.

Related terms

joint resolution: A joint resolution is a legislative proposal that requires approval from both chambers and the President, often used for significant issues like constitutional amendments or emergency appropriations.

resolution: A resolution is a formal expression of opinion or intention made by a legislative body, which may be either concurrent or simple, depending on whether it involves one or both chambers.

bill:

A bill is a proposed law that must be approved by both chambers of Congress and signed by the President to become law, distinct from resolutions which do not have this requirement.