US Federal 2025-2026 Regular Session

US Federal Senate Bill SJR116

Introduced
3/5/26  

Caption

A joint resolution to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against the Islamic Republic of Iran that have not been authorized by Congress.

Impact

If enacted, SJR116 would reaffirm the boundaries of presidential powers regarding military engagement, potentially limiting the executive branch's ability to unilaterally decide military operations against Iran. The failure to secure congressional authorization for military actions may lead to significant changes in how future military interventions are managed, ensuring that both branches of government maintain a check on each other, particularly in matters of war. This could set a precedence for similar legislative efforts aimed at constraining military authority.

Summary

SJR116 is a joint resolution aiming to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against Iran that have not been authorized by Congress. The bill emphasizes Congress's constitutional authority to declare war, explicitly stating that the President cannot engage the military in operations against Iran without explicit legislative approval. The resolution responds to the recent military actions initiated under the Trump administration, particularly Operation Epic Fury, which introduced American troops into a complex military conflict without a formal declaration of war from Congress.

Contention

Key points of contention surrounding SJR116 include the interpretation of the War Powers Resolution and ongoing debates about the extent of presidential powers in military strategy. Proponents argue that the resolution will protect democratic principles by ensuring that decisions involving military force are made collectively by the legislative branch. Opponents may raise concerns regarding national security and the timeliness of military responses, arguing that limiting the President’s authority could hinder the effectiveness of military operations and national defense against threats posed by Iran.

Companion Bills

US SJR104

Related A joint resolution to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against the Islamic Republic of Iran that have not been authorized by Congress.

US SJR114

Related A joint resolution to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against the Islamic Republic of Iran that have not been authorized by Congress.

US SJR117

Related A joint resolution to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against the Islamic Republic of Iran that have not been authorized by Congress.

US SJR115

Related A joint resolution to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against the Islamic Republic of Iran that have not been authorized by Congress.

US SJR163

Related A joint resolution to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against the Islamic Republic of Iran that have not been authorized by Congress.

US SJR185

Related A joint resolution to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against the Islamic Republic of Iran that have not been authorized by Congress.

Previously Filed As

US SJR117

A joint resolution to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against the Islamic Republic of Iran that have not been authorized by Congress.

US SJR123

A joint resolution to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against the Islamic Republic of Iran that have not been authorized by Congress.

US SJR181

A joint resolution to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against the Islamic Republic of Iran that have not been authorized by Congress.

US SJR191

A joint resolution to direct removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against the Islamic Republic of Iran that have not been authorized by Congress.

US SJR180

A joint resolution to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against the Islamic Republic of Iran that have not been authorized by Congress.

US SJR171

A joint resolution to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against the Islamic Republic of Iran that have not been authorized by Congress.

US SJR115

A joint resolution to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against the Islamic Republic of Iran that have not been authorized by Congress.

US SJR118

A joint resolution to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against the Islamic Republic of Iran that have not been authorized by Congress.

US SJR172

A joint resolution to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against the Islamic Republic of Iran that have not been authorized by Congress.

US SJR183

A joint resolution to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against the Islamic Republic of Iran that have not been authorized by Congress.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.