Concurrent Resolutions of Congress: How They Work and What They Mean for Decision-Makers

Concurrent resolutions of Congress are an important legal tool used by Congress, but understanding their purpose and implications can be confusing. This article explains what a concurrent resolution is, how it works, and what it means for decision-makers.

What Is a Concurrent Resolution of Congress?

A concurrent resolution is a type of legislative action taken by both houses of Congress. These resolutions carry the same legal weight as an act or a statute passed by Congress, but they differ in a few key ways.

Unlike acts or statutes, concurrent resolutions do not require the president’s approval. They are also used to express the sense of Congress on a particular issue or to resolve a particular problem. For example, a concurrent resolution may set a deadline for the president to make a decision on a proposed bill or determine the spending limits for the next fiscal year.

In contrast, an act or statute is a more permanent form of legislation that becomes part of the law. An act or statute must pass through both houses of Congress and be approved by the president before it can take effect.

What Does a Concurrent Resolution Mean for Decision-Makers?

A concurrent resolution of Congress can be an important tool for decision-makers. It can allow businesses to plan ahead by providing clarity on legislative goals, like establishing deadlines or budget allocations.

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For example, in 2018, Congress passed a concurrent resolution setting the budget for the rest of fiscal year 2018, giving businesses greater certainty when planning for the year ahead. This resolution also had the effect of ending a government shutdown.

Additionally, a concurrent resolution may be used to express Congress’ opinion on an important issue. This can provide insight to businesses and government decision-makers on the goals of Congress.

Related Legal Concepts

Understanding concurrent resolutions of Congress often goes hand in hand with other congressional actions like joint resolution of Congress and general resolution of Congress, which have different procedural requirements and legal effects. While concurrent resolutions don’t require presidential approval, joint resolutions typically do and can become law, making the distinction crucial for interpreting congressional intent. These legislative tools work alongside corporate resolution procedures in the business context, where formal resolutions also guide organizational decision-making and express institutional positions.

The Bottom Line

Concurrent resolutions represent Congress’s ability to take unified action without presidential involvement, primarily serving to express legislative sentiment or establish procedural guidelines. They provide important signals about congressional priorities and can influence business planning and government operations, even though they don’t create binding law like statutes. For guidance specific to your situation, always consult a qualified, licensed attorney.