The War Powers Resolution

by Richard F Grimmett (Editor)

Given the current war against terrorism, the question of the War Powers Resolution needs to be addressed. Even before the action in Afghanistan, presidents had been committing US armed forces personnel to various actions without specific congressional authorisation. The War Powers Resolution, passed in 1973, provides a set of procedures for the American president and Congress to send American forces into hostilities. The presidential reports to Congress about military actions have ranged from embassy evacuations to full-scale combat operations. Some members of Congress believe that the War Powers Resolution is ineffective and needs amendment, while others contend that it has effectively increased congressional power and consultation. This book both analyses the history and impact of the landmark War Powers Resolution and provides a comprehensive bibliography about the act.

93 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 2002