Authorizing the use of the rotunda of the Capitol for the lying in state of the remains of Sergeant Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar, and of Sergeant William Nathaniel Howard, of the Iowa National Guard.
- Bill Number
- H.Con.Res. 67
- Origin Chamber
- House
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 1
- Policy Area
- Congress
- Status
- Introduced
- Latest Action
- 2025-12-15: Referred to the House Committee on House Administration.
- Last Updated
- 2025-12-17T15:48:41Z
AI-Generated Summary
Purpose
This concurrent resolution (H. Con. Res. 67) authorizes a ceremonial honor for two deceased members of the Iowa National Guard by permitting their remains to lie in state in the U.S. Capitol rotunda. Lying in state is a formal tradition where the public can pay respects to notable figures, often military heroes, in a prominent government location.
Key Provisions
- Recognizes Sergeant Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar and Sergeant William Nathaniel Howard for their distinguished service in the 1st Squadron of the 113th Cavalry Regiment of the Iowa National Guard.
- Allows their remains to lie in state in the Capitol rotunda on a date determined by the President pro tempore of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives.
- Directs the Architect of the Capitol to coordinate all necessary arrangements under the guidance of the Senate President pro tempore and House Speaker.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
This resolution does not amend or change any existing laws. As a concurrent resolution, it is a ceremonial measure passed by both the House and Senate to express congressional intent or authorize specific events, without the force of law or presidential signature.
Potential Impacts
- On government agencies: Temporarily affects Capitol operations, including security, public access, and facilities managed by the Architect of the Capitol and congressional leadership.
- On citizens: Provides a public opportunity for mourning and tribute, fostering national unity and respect for military service; may draw visitors to Washington, D.C., for the event.
- On international relations: No direct impact, as this is a domestic ceremonial honor.
Main Stakeholders Affected
- Families and loved ones of Sergeants Torres-Tovar and Howard, who receive this high-level recognition.
- Members of the Iowa National Guard and the broader U.S. military community, honored through this tribute.
- Congressional leaders (Speaker of the House, President pro tempore of the Senate) and the Architect of the Capitol, responsible for implementation.
- The general public, particularly Iowans and veterans' groups, who may participate in or observe the event.
Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications
- Legal: This is a non-binding resolution that relies on congressional authority over Capitol facilities (under Article I of the U.S. Constitution, which grants Congress control of its buildings). It sets no precedents or enforceable rules.
- Constitutional: Aligns with Congress's housekeeping powers but highlights the ceremonial role of the legislative branch in honoring military sacrifices, without infringing on executive or judicial functions.
- Political: Demonstrates bipartisan respect for service members (introduced by Rep. Mast with Iowa representatives), potentially boosting morale in the National Guard and reinforcing Congress's symbolic support for the military amid ongoing national security discussions. No major controversies anticipated, as such honors are routine for fallen heroes.
This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.
Sponsor
Cosponsors (4)
Rep. Nunn, Zachary [R-IA-3], Rep. Feenstra, Randy [R-IA-4], Rep. Miller-Meeks, Mariannette [R-IA-1], Rep. Hinson, Ashley [R-IA-2]
Recent Actions
- 2025-12-15: Referred to the House Committee on House Administration.
- 2025-12-15: Submitted in House
- 2025-12-15: Submitted in House
Bill Versions
- Authorizing the use of the rotunda of the Capitol for the lying in state of the remains of Sergeant Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar, and of Sergeant William Nathaniel Howard, of the Iowa National Guard. — issued 2025-12-15 — PDF (2 pages)