H.J.Res.72 - Relating to a national emergency by the President on February 1, 2025. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.J.Res.72 is a joint resolution relating to a national emergency declared by the President on February 1, 2025, through Executive Order 14193. The resolution, introduced in the House of Representatives on March 6, 2025, seeks to terminate this declared national emergency. The resolution cites Section 202 of the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622) as the legal basis for its action.
Expected Effects
If passed, H.J.Res.72 would terminate the national emergency declared by the President. This would likely result in the cessation of any special powers or actions taken by the executive branch under the authority of the National Emergencies Act related to that specific emergency. The practical implications would depend on the nature of the emergency and the specific actions taken in response.
Potential Benefits
- Restores balance of power between the legislative and executive branches.
- Limits potential overreach by the executive branch during a declared emergency.
- Reaffirms Congress's role in overseeing and checking presidential powers.
- May reduce economic disruptions or restrictions imposed during the emergency.
- Could lead to a return to normal legal and regulatory frameworks.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- May hinder the government's ability to respond quickly to the original emergency if it persists.
- Could disrupt ongoing efforts to address the issues that led to the emergency declaration.
- Potential for increased uncertainty if the underlying problems are not resolved.
- May create a perception of political gridlock or instability.
- Could weaken the nation's ability to project resolve in the face of a crisis.
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution aligns with the principle of checks and balances, a core tenet of the US Constitution, particularly Article I, Section 1, which vests legislative powers in Congress. By seeking to terminate a national emergency declared by the President, Congress is exercising its oversight role. The National Emergencies Act itself was designed to provide a framework for presidential declarations of emergency while also ensuring congressional oversight and accountability.
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).