joint resolution
Noun: 1. A legislative measure: A joint resolution is a formal expression of opinion, will, or intent voted on by both houses of a bicameral legislature (specifically, the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate). It has the same legal force as a bill when enacted. 2. A mechanism for proposing constitutional amendments: In the United States, a joint resolution is the specific instrument used by Congress to propose an amendment to the U.S. Constitution.
A joint resolution is used for matters of a temporary nature, for continuing or emergency appropriations, or for proposing amendments to the Constitution. It must be approved in identical form by both the Senate and the House of Representatives and is presented to the President for signature (except for constitutional amendments, which are sent to the states for ratification).
- General Legislative Action: "Congress passed a joint resolution authorizing the use of military force."
- Constitutional Amendment: "The 26th Amendment, which lowered the voting age to 18, was proposed by a joint resolution of Congress."
- Formal Statement: "The joint resolution condemned the acts of aggression and called for a peaceful resolution."
- Designation: Joint resolutions are designated with the abbreviations "H.J. Res." (House Joint Resolution) or "S.J. Res." (Senate Joint Resolution) followed by a number.
- Distinction from Concurrent Resolution: Unlike a concurrent resolution (which does not have the force of law and is not presented to the President), a joint resolution requires the President's approval to become law (except for constitutional amendments).
- Bill (n): A draft of a proposed law presented to a legislature for discussion. Unlike a joint resolution, bills are used for permanent, general legislation.
- Concurrent Resolution (n): A legislative measure used for matters affecting both houses, such as setting the time for adjournment. It does not become law.
- Simple Resolution (n): A legislative measure used for matters concerning a single house of Congress. It does not become law.
- Legislative measure
- Enacted resolution
- To pass a joint resolution: The act of a legislative body approving the resolution.
- To introduce a joint resolution: The act of formally proposing the resolution for consideration.
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a resolution passed by both houses of Congress which becomes legally binding when signed by the Chief Executive (or passed over the Chief Executive's veto)
