HRES-58-119
Referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce.
Sponsored by Becca Balint (D-VT)
What it does
This resolution would express congratulations from the House of Representatives to the University of Vermont men's soccer team for winning the 2024 NCAA Division I men's soccer national championship. It would direct the Clerk of the House to send copies of the resolution to the university's interim president, athletic director, and head coach. It creates no funding, regulation, or legal obligations.
Who benefits
The University of Vermont men's soccer team, its coaching and support staff, and the university community, who receive formal congressional recognition. Vermont's congressional delegation and residents who take pride in the team's achievement may also feel represented.
Who is hurt
No group is meaningfully affected. The resolution changes no laws, spends no money, and imposes no obligations on any person or entity.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue the resolution is a fitting way to formally recognize a significant achievement by a Vermont institution, especially the team's first-ever NCAA Division I national championship. They contend such resolutions cost nothing, carry no legal effect, and reflect a long congressional tradition of honoring notable athletic and civic accomplishments from members' home states.
Opponents argue
Opponents argue that commemorative resolutions like this one consume floor time and committee attention that could instead go toward substantive legislation addressing pressing national issues. They contend that recognizing local sports achievements is more appropriately handled by state legislatures, university administrations, or local governments rather than the U.S. House of Representatives.
Constitutional context
This resolution raises no constitutional question beyond the House's general authority to conduct its own proceedings and express its sentiments through simple resolutions.
Checks and balances
This resolution creates no new authority for any branch; it is a symbolic expression of the House's sentiment with no binding legal effect.