A concurrent resolution authorizing the use of the rotunda of the Capitol for the lying in state of the remains of the late James Earl Carter, Jr., 39th President of the United States.

Bill Number

S.Con.Res. 3

Origin Chamber

Senate

Congress

119th Congress, Session 1

Policy Area

Congress

Status

Passed House

Latest Action

2025-01-03: Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

Last Updated

2025-01-21T13:55:33Z

AI-Generated Summary

Purpose

This concurrent resolution honors the late James Earl Carter, Jr., the 39th President of the United States, by authorizing a ceremonial event to recognize his service to the nation and the world. It permits his remains to lie in state—a traditional public viewing in a place of honor—allowing citizens to pay respects.

Key Provisions

• Lying in State Authorization: The remains of former President Carter are allowed to lie in state in the rotunda of the U.S. Capitol (the large, circular room at the center of the Capitol building) from January 7, 2025, to January 9, 2025.
• Oversight and Implementation: The Architect of the Capitol (the official responsible for maintaining the Capitol building) must arrange the event under the direction of the Senate Majority Leader and the Speaker of the House of Representatives.
• Use of Catafalque: The Architect is directed to move the catafalque—a raised platform draped in black used to hold a coffin—from the Capitol Visitor Center's Exhibition Hall to the rotunda for the services.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

This resolution does not amend or change any existing laws. As a concurrent resolution (a type of congressional action that does not become law but expresses Congress's will), it simply authorizes a one-time ceremonial use of federal facilities, following established traditions for honoring deceased presidents.

Potential Impacts

• On Government Agencies: The Architect of the Capitol and congressional leaders will coordinate logistics, including security and setup, using public resources for the event. This may temporarily affect Capitol access and operations.
• On Citizens: Provides an opportunity for the public to view and mourn former President Carter in a symbolic national setting, fostering unity and remembrance without direct costs to individuals.
• On International Relations: Minimal direct impact, but the event symbolically reinforces the U.S.'s respect for its leaders, potentially highlighting Carter's global humanitarian legacy (e.g., his post-presidency work with organizations like Habitat for Humanity).

Main Stakeholders Affected

• Congressional Leaders: Senate Majority Leader and Speaker of the House, who direct the event.
• Architect of the Capitol: Responsible for physical arrangements and resource allocation.
• Carter Family and Estate: Benefits from the national honor and ceremonial services.
• The Public: Gains access to a historic tribute, including visitors to Washington, D.C.
• Capitol Staff and Security: Involved in preparation and management to ensure safety during public viewing.

Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications

• Legal: This is a procedural authorization under Congress's control over the Capitol (as per Article I of the U.S. Constitution, which gives Congress authority over its buildings). It aligns with precedents for similar honors given to all deceased U.S. presidents since 1865, ensuring no legal conflicts.
• Constitutional: No significant issues; it upholds traditions without infringing on rights or powers.
• Political: Demonstrates bipartisan respect (introduced by Senators from different parties), promoting national unity in mourning. It sets no new precedents but reinforces the ceremonial role of Congress in honoring public figures.

This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.

Sponsor

Sen. Klobuchar, Amy [D-MN]

Cosponsors (1)

Sen. Fischer, Deb [R-NE]

Recent Actions

• 2025-01-03: Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
• 2025-01-03: On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to without objection.
• 2025-01-03: Passed/agreed to in House: On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to without objection.
• 2025-01-03: Mrs. Fischbach asked unanimous consent to take from the Speaker's table and consider.
• 2025-01-03: Considered by unanimous consent.
• 2025-01-03: Received in the House.
• 2025-01-03: Message on Senate action sent to the House.
• 2025-01-03: Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S12; text: CR S12)
• 2025-01-03: Passed/agreed to in Senate: Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment by Unanimous Consent.
• 2025-01-03: Introduced in Senate

Bill Versions

• Authorizing the use of the rotunda of the Capitol for the lying in state of the remains of the late James Earl Carter, Jr., 39th President of the United States. — issued 2025-01-03 — PDF (2 pages)
• Authorizing the use of the rotunda of the Capitol for the lying in state of the remains of the late James Earl Carter, Jr., 39th President of the United States. — issued 2025-01-03 — PDF (1 pages)
• Authorizing the use of the rotunda of the Capitol for the lying in state of the remains of the late James Earl Carter, Jr., 39th President of the United States. — issued 2025-01-03 — PDF (4 pages)