Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress Senate Bill SB1912

Introduced
6/8/23  

Caption

ARTICLE ONE Act Assuring that Robust, Thorough, and Informed Congressional Leadership is Exercised Over National Emergencies Act

Impact

If enacted, SB1912 would fundamentally change the process of declaring and managing national emergencies. The bill would amend Title II of the National Emergencies Act to enforce strict requirements on how and when the President can act during such emergencies. By requiring that emergencies be reviewed and approved by Congress, it limits the timeframe in which the President can unilaterally enact emergency powers, thereby fostering a more accountable and transparent government. This legislation aims to restore power to Congress during crises, which is especially crucial in preventing executive overreach.

Summary

SB1912, also known as the ARTICLE ONE Act, aims to enhance congressional oversight of national emergency declarations. The bill requires the President to obtain congressional approval for the declaration of a national emergency and subsequent renewal of such declarations. It establishes a 30-day limit on the initial declaration unless Congress enacts a joint resolution of approval. The aim is to ensure that extraordinary powers granted during emergencies are subject to rigorous checks and balances from the legislature, enhancing the democratic process and preventing potential abuses of power by the executive branch. The bill mandates regular reports from the President to Congress detailing the actions taken during the emergency and the necessity for ongoing authority.

Contention

Debate around SB1912 reflects a wider national conversation about the balance of power between Congress and the presidency. Supporters argue that the bill is necessary to prevent the unchecked expansion of presidential authority during times of emergency, promoting accountability and ensuring that Congress remains an active participant in governance. Critics raise concerns about the practicality of requiring immediate congressional action in urgent situations, fearing that bureaucratic delays could hinder timely responses to national crises. This contention highlights the tension between desires for accountability and the need for swift government action in emergencies.

Companion Bills

US HB3988

Same As ARTICLE ONE Act Assuring that Robust, Thorough, and Informed Congressional Leadership is Exercised Over National Emergencies Act

US HB4928

Related National Security Reforms and Accountability Act National Emergencies Reform Act Arms Export Control Reform Act War Powers Resolution Modernization and Accountability Act

US SB4373

Related REPUBLIC Act Reforming Emergency Powers to Uphold the Balances and Limitations Inherent in the Constitution Act

Similar Bills

US HB3988

ARTICLE ONE Act Assuring that Robust, Thorough, and Informed Congressional Leadership is Exercised Over National Emergencies Act

US HB3466

To enhance Financial Stability Oversight Council transparency.

US HB1135

Countering Economic Coercion Act of 2023

US SB1457

Taiwan Tax Agreement Act of 2023

US HB3953

Debt Ceiling Reform Act

US SB1882

Debt Ceiling Reform Act

US HB4494

Ensuring Faith in Our Elections Act Promoting Free and Fair Elections Act Solving an Overlooked Loophole in Votes for Executives (SOLVE) Act

US SB2210

Iran Sanctions Relief Review Act