CONGRESS FOR VOTERS

John Thune (R-SD)

A resolution to authorize representation by the Senate Legal Counsel in the case of Desmond Bellard v. Ronald Wyden, U.S. Senator.

S.Res. 170 · Senate resolution Congress

A Republican resolution with 1 Democratic cosponsor · See the cosponsor

Last activity — Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S2542; text: CR S2569)

Adopted

The chamber formally agreed to it, and for a resolution that is the finish line: what it says is now officially the chamber's position, rule or tribute.

Nothing more is needed. A resolution is how a chamber speaks for itself or sets its own rules, so adopting it is what puts it into effect. It is not a law, so there is nothing for the President to sign.

Its path through Congress

  1. Introduced
  2. Officially Recorded
  3. Adopted by the Senate unanimous consent

A Senate resolution is the Senate speaking for itself: stating a position, honouring someone, or setting its own rules. Adopting it is the whole process. Once the Senate agrees to it, it is officially the Senate's word; it is not a law, so the House and the President have no part in it.

The Senate by unanimous consent (no one objected, so there was no vote): no senator's position on it was recorded.

What this bill would do

This resolution authorizes the Senate Legal Counsel to represent Senator Ronald Wyden. Senator Wyden has been named as a respondent in a case titled Desmond Bellard v. Ronald Wyden, U.S. Senator. This legal matter is currently pending in the Oregon Supreme Court. The authorization is based on the Senate's ability to direct counsel to defend Members in civil actions related to their official responsibilities.