Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

Tennessee House Bill HJR0689

Introduced
12/5/23  
Refer
1/10/24  
Refer
1/23/24  
Refer
1/31/24  

Caption

A RESOLUTION to urge the United States Congress to keep the power to declare war and for the National Guard to be protected from executive power.

Impact

The resolution highlights a significant constitutional debate regarding the balance of war powers between Congress and the executive branch. If adopted, it suggests increased scrutiny and limitations on the actions of the executive in matters of military engagement. By reaffirming Congress's role in declaring war, the bill would reestablish the legislative body's authority in military matters, which many proponents argue has been diminished over the last several decades due to the actions of successive administrations.

Summary

House Joint Resolution 689 (HJR0689) is a resolution that urges the United States Congress to maintain the exclusive power to declare war as outlined in Article I, Section 8 of the United States Constitution. The resolution emphasizes concerns that the executive branch has overstepped its authority by assuming control over war declarations, which should constitutionally belong to Congress. Citing historical figures like Thomas Jefferson and George Washington, the resolution advocates for a return to the original framework intended by the framers of the Constitution, underscoring the importance of legislative oversight in matters of war.

Contention

There may be notable contention surrounding HJR0689, as critics could argue that such a resolution might restrict the executive's ability to respond swiftly to international threats. Some may view this push for congressional oversight as an attempt to hinder national security operations, while proponents of the resolution would argue that it is a necessary check on the executive power to prevent unilateral military actions. The resolution reflects differing perspectives on national security and the appropriate distribution of powers between state and federal authorities.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TN HCR6006

To urge the United States Congress and the President of the United States to take no action to employ military forces of the United States in active-duty combat unless the United States Congress has passed an official declaration of war and to bring troops home who are engaged in unconstitutional foreign conflicts.

TN HB1056

Defend the Guard Act; create to require official declaration of war before national guard are called for active duty combat.

TN HB2188

National guard; active duty combat

TN HB2320

National guard; active duty combat

TN HB2181

National guard; active duty combat

TN H0261

Mobilization of the Florida National Guard

TN SCR32

Strongly urges the U.S. Congress to propose the State Powers Amendment to the U.S. Constitution

TN SCR17

Strongly urges the U.S Congress to propose the State Powers Amendment to the U.S. Constitution

TN HB527

Require official action to release Montana national guard to active duty combat

TN SF1503

A resolution expressing concern of the Minnesota Legislature regarding the deployment of members of the Minnesota National Guard into combat of wars not declared by Congress; urging Congress and the President of the United States to respect their constitutional roles regarding the declaration of war

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