Us Congress Senate Bill SJR47

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/30/23
• Refer: 10/30/23

Caption

A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Department of Justice relating to "Office of the Attorney General; Home Confinement Under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act".

Impact

The passage of SJR47 would prevent the rule from taking effect, thereby influencing how the Department of Justice manages home confinement for individuals affected by the CARES Act. This could result in changes to the way the DOJ distributes authority and manages its resources regarding supervised release conditions for federally incarcerated individuals. The resolution underscores a critical tension between Congressional oversight and the executive branch's regulatory authority, particularly in an area of significant public interest during a national emergency.

Summary

SJR47 is a joint resolution that seeks to disapprove a rule submitted by the Department of Justice concerning the implementation of home confinement provisions under the CARES Act. The resolution intends to nullify the rule laid out in the Federal Register, which affected the management of home confinement as it pertains to individuals under the supervision of the Attorney General during the COVID-19 pandemic. By disapproving this regulation, Congress aims to assert its oversight roles over executive branch actions taken in the wake of the pandemic legislation.

Contention

SJR47 has sparked discussions around issues of governmental authority, especially regarding the balance of power between Congress and the executive branch. Proponents of the resolution argue that the disapproval reflects a necessary check on the executive's power to enforce regulations impacting individual freedoms and public safety. Conversely, opponents may view the resolution as an unnecessary legislative intervention that could disrupt the DOJ's capacity to adapt to emergent health conditions and manage federal prison populations effectively.