Bills of Congress by U.S. Congress

Directing the President, pursuant to section 5(c) of the War Powers Resolution, to remove United States Armed Forces from hostilities with presidentially designated terrorist organizations in the Western Hemisphere.

Summary

This concurrent resolution directs the President, under Section 5(c) of the War Powers Resolution, to remove U.S. Armed Forces from hostilities with presidentially designated terrorist organizations in the Western Hemisphere. This action is required unless authorized by a declaration of war or a specific congressional authorization for the use of military force. The resolution was introduced in the House of Representatives by Mr. Meeks and several co-sponsors and referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs.

Expected Effects

The resolution, if passed by both the House and Senate, would compel the President to withdraw U.S. troops from engagements with terrorist groups in the Western Hemisphere, absent explicit congressional authorization. This could alter the U.S. military posture and foreign policy approach in the region. The resolution aims to reassert Congressional authority over military actions, as outlined in the War Powers Resolution.

Potential Benefits

  • Reasserts Congressional authority over military actions, promoting checks and balances.
  • May reduce the risk of prolonged or unauthorized military engagements.
  • Could lead to a more focused and deliberate foreign policy strategy.
  • Potentially decreases military expenditures in the Western Hemisphere.
  • May encourage diplomatic solutions over military intervention.

Potential Disadvantages

  • Could weaken U.S. ability to respond to immediate terrorist threats in the Western Hemisphere.
  • May embolden terrorist organizations if U.S. military presence is reduced.
  • Potential for increased instability in the region if U.S. forces are withdrawn prematurely.
  • Could strain relationships with allies who rely on U.S. military support.
  • May limit the President's flexibility in responding to unforeseen security challenges.

Constitutional Alignment

The resolution invokes Section 5(c) of the War Powers Resolution, which itself is intended to align with the constitutional powers of Congress to declare war (Article I, Section 8). The resolution seeks to ensure that military actions are authorized by Congress, reflecting the principle of checks and balances. The Constitution grants Congress the power to declare war, and this resolution aims to reinforce that authority by requiring congressional approval for military engagements against terrorist organizations.

Impact Assessment: Things You Care About

This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).