S.conres3 - Authorizing the use of the rotunda of the Capitol for the lying in state of the remains of the late James Earl Carter, Jr., 39th President of the United States. (119th Congress)
Summary
This concurrent resolution, S. Con. Res. 3, authorizes the use of the Capitol rotunda for the lying in state of the remains of former President James Earl Carter, Jr. The resolution was submitted in the Senate on January 3, 2025, by Ms. Klobuchar and Mrs. Fischer and was subsequently agreed to. It directs the Architect of the Capitol to prepare the rotunda and transfer the catafalque from the Capitol Visitor Center for the services.
Expected Effects
The immediate effect will be the preparation of the Capitol rotunda for the ceremony honoring President Carter. This includes setting up the catafalque and managing the logistics for the public viewing. In the long term, it serves as a tribute to his service and legacy.
Potential Benefits
- Provides a formal and respectful way for the nation to honor a former president.
- Offers the public an opportunity to pay their respects.
- Reinforces the importance of public service and civic engagement.
- Preserves a tradition of honoring distinguished leaders.
- Symbolically unites the country in mourning and remembrance.
Potential Disadvantages
- Inconvenience to Capitol visitors due to closure of the rotunda.
- Potential cost associated with preparing the rotunda and providing security (though likely minimal).
- May be perceived as a purely symbolic gesture without tangible benefits.
- Could be seen as politicizing the Capitol building, although this is a widely accepted tradition.
- Potential disruption to other legislative activities during the period.
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution aligns with the general principles of honoring public service, which, while not explicitly mentioned, is consistent with the Constitution's aim to 'promote the general Welfare.' Article I, Section 5, grants each House the power to determine the rules of its proceedings, which would include the use of the Capitol rotunda. There are no apparent conflicts with any specific constitutional provision.
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).