Relating to a national emergency by the President on February 1, 2025.
Impact
The passage of HJR72 would reinforce legislative checks on executive power, ensuring that declared emergencies are subject to congressional oversight. The resolution places emphasis on the balance of power between the Executive and Legislative branches, reflecting concerns regarding the breadth of authority afforded to the presidency during declared emergencies. By terminating the emergency, it would halt any extraordinary measures allowed to the executive branch under the pretense of an emergency situation.
Summary
HJR72 is a joint resolution aimed at terminating a national emergency declared by the President on February 1, 2025, under Executive Order 14193. This resolution falls under the provisions of the National Emergencies Act, specifically section 202. If passed, it would effectively end the state of emergency, thereby closing off any special government powers that may have been in effect during that time.
Contention
There may be notable points of contention surrounding HJR72, particularly regarding the implications for national security and the government's ability to respond swiftly to crises. Proponents of the resolution argue that prolonged states of emergency could lead to an overreach of presidential authority and erosion of civil liberties. Conversely, opponents could argue that terminating such declarations preemptively might compromise the government's readiness to respond to genuine emergencies and crises.
Limiting Emergency Powers Act of 2023 This bill provides that a national emergency declared by the President terminates 30 days after a declaration unless a joint resolution affirming such declaration is enacted. All existing emergency declarations expire after two years unless the President requests a renewal that receives congressional approval.