Authorizing the use of the rotunda of the Capitol for the lying in honor of the remains of the late Charles James Kirk, a lifelong advocate for freedom of speech, civil political discourse, and the political engagement of youth.
- Bill Number
- H.Con.Res. 48
- Origin Chamber
- House
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 1
- Policy Area
- Congress
- Status
- Introduced
- Latest Action
- 2025-09-15: Referred to the House Committee on House Administration.
- Last Updated
- 2025-09-27T08:05:35Z
AI-Generated Summary
Purpose
This concurrent resolution (H. Con. Res. 48) authorizes a ceremonial event to honor the late Charles James Kirk, described as a lifelong advocate for freedom of speech, civil political discourse, and the political engagement of youth. It permits his remains to "lie in honor" in the U.S. Capitol rotunda, a rare tribute typically reserved for distinguished individuals.
Key Provisions
- The House of Representatives and Senate (concurring) approve the use of the Capitol rotunda for Kirk's remains to lie in honor.
- The date and duration of the event will be set by the Speaker of the House and the President pro tempore of the Senate.
- The Architect of the Capitol is directed to handle all necessary preparations under the guidance of the Speaker and President pro tempore.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
This resolution introduces no changes to existing laws or statutes. As a concurrent resolution, it is a ceremonial measure that does not require presidential approval and serves only to authorize a specific, one-time event without altering legal frameworks.
Potential Impacts
- On government agencies: The Architect of the Capitol and congressional leadership will manage logistics, potentially involving temporary adjustments to Capitol access and security, but with minimal long-term effects.
- On citizens: It provides a public opportunity to pay respects to Kirk, highlighting his contributions to free speech and youth involvement in politics, which may inspire civic engagement among the public.
- On international relations: No direct impacts, as this is a domestic ceremonial honor.
Main Stakeholders Affected
- Congressional leaders: Speaker of the House, President pro tempore of the Senate, and the House Administration Committee (where the resolution was referred).
- Architect of the Capitol: Responsible for event setup and execution.
- Family and supporters of Charles James Kirk: Benefits from the official recognition of his legacy.
- General public: May attend the event, fostering awareness of Kirk's advocacy work.
Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications
- Legal/Constitutional: This is a non-binding resolution with no enforceable legal effects. "Lying in honor" is a congressional tradition (distinct from the presidentially directed "lying in state"), rooted in Congress's authority over the Capitol under Article I of the U.S. Constitution, allowing such honors without broader implications.
- Political: The bipartisan sponsorship (introduced by Rep. Mace with co-sponsors from both parties) underscores cross-aisle agreement on valuing free speech and civil discourse. It politically elevates Kirk's role in conservative activism, potentially influencing public discourse on youth political involvement, but remains symbolic rather than policy-driven.
This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.
Sponsor
Cosponsors (14)
Rep. Biggs, Andy [R-AZ-5], Rep. Smith, Christopher H. [R-NJ-4], Rep. Rulli, Michael A. [R-OH-6], Rep. Massie, Thomas [R-KY-4], Rep. Diaz-Balart, Mario [R-FL-26], Rep. Wilson, Joe [R-SC-2], Rep. Patronis, Jimmy [R-FL-1], Rep. Babin, Brian [R-TX-36], Rep. McGuire, John J. [R-VA-5], Rep. Boebert, Lauren [R-CO-4], Rep. Gill, Brandon [R-TX-26], Rep. Jackson, Ronny [R-TX-13], Rep. Gosar, Paul A. [R-AZ-9], Rep. Luna, Anna Paulina [R-FL-13]
Recent Actions
- 2025-09-15: Referred to the House Committee on House Administration.
- 2025-09-15: Submitted in House
- 2025-09-15: Submitted in House
Bill Versions
- Authorizing the use of the rotunda of the Capitol for the lying in honor of the remains of the late Charles James Kirk, a lifelong advocate for freedom of speech, civil political discourse, and the political engagement of youth. — issued 2025-09-15 — PDF (2 pages)