HRES-874-119
Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
Sponsored by Harold Rogers (R-KY)
What it does
This resolution would formally express the House of Representatives' sorrow over the death of former Vice President Richard B. Cheney. It would direct the Clerk of the House to communicate the resolution to the Senate and transmit a copy to Cheney's family. It would also adjourn the House on the day of passage as a mark of respect.
Who benefits
The Cheney family would receive formal acknowledgment of condolence from the House. Members of the House who wish to formally honor a former Vice President would have a vehicle to do so. Constituents and others who wish to see the institution recognize Cheney's service would benefit symbolically.
Who is hurt
No group is materially harmed by this resolution. The one-day adjournment could marginally delay other House business, which may affect parties awaiting legislative action on pending matters.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that honoring former Vice Presidents upon their death is a longstanding institutional tradition that reflects the House's respect for those who have served at the highest levels of government. They contend that such resolutions affirm the dignity of public service regardless of political affiliation and provide a formal, bipartisan expression of condolence to the deceased's family.
Opponents argue
Opponents could argue that adjourning the full House as a mark of respect consumes legislative time that could be used for pending public business, and that the resolution's passage sets a precedent for which former officials receive this honor. They might contend that the House should reserve such formal tributes for a consistently applied standard rather than on a case-by-case basis.
Constitutional context
No significant constitutional issues are raised by this resolution. The House has broad authority under Article I to govern its own proceedings, including adjournment and the passage of simple resolutions, which do not carry the force of law.
Checks and balances
The House retains full control over this resolution; it is a simple House resolution (H. Res.) that does not require Senate passage or presidential signature, so no other branch gains or loses power.
Historical precedent
The House has passed similar memorial resolutions upon the deaths of other former Vice Presidents and senior officials, including H. Res. 45 (2018) expressing condolences on the death of former President George H.W. Bush.