If enacted, SB560 would significantly alter the deployment protocols for the Montana National Guard, ensuring that state soldiers cannot be sent into combat unless Congress formally declares war or takes specific actions that align with constitutional provisions. This would reaffirm the legislative role in matters of war and potentially limit the executive branch's ability to engage in military actions, promoting a check on the power of the presidency concerning military engagement.
Summary
Senate Bill 560, known as the 'Defend the Montana Guard Act', addresses the conditions under which members of the Montana National Guard may be deployed into active combat. The bill mandates that an official declaration of war or an explicit congressional action is required before any member of the Montana National Guard can be sent into active-duty combat. This legislation is rooted in the belief that the U.S. Constitution grants Congress the exclusive power to declare war, and aims to prevent the executive branch from deploying military forces without proper legislative approval.
Contention
The bill is likely to face debate, primarily around concerns regarding the balance of power between state and federal authorities. Advocates argue that the bill serves to uphold constitutional principles and protect state sovereignty, while critics may view it as an impractical restriction on military readiness and the ability to respond swiftly in emergencies. Additionally, there may be arguments regarding the timely congressional action required in a fast-evolving global security environment, which could affect the readiness and operational capabilities of the National Guard.
Urges Congress to provide for joint session at Independence Hall in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in honor of semiquincentennial of Declaration of Independence.
Removal of the Highway Plan and Building Restriction Line from Lot 9 in Square 5914 along the West Side of Congress Street, S.E., S.O. 22-01642, Act of 2024
Urging the Congress of the United States to propose and submit to the states for ratification a federal balanced budget amendment to the Constitution of the United States and, in the event that Congress does not submit such an amendment on or before December 31, 2011, applying to Congress to call a convention for the specific and exclusive purpose of proposing an amendment to that constitution to provide, in the absence of a national emergency and on a two-thirds vote of Congress, for a federal balanced budget and requesting that the legislatures of each of the several states that compose the United States apply to Congress to call a convention to propose such an amendment.
A resolution recognizing the expiration of the Equal Rights Amendment proposed by Congress in March 1972, and observing that Congress has no authority to modify a resolution proposing a constitutional amendment after the amendment has been submitted to the States or after the amendment has expired.