SRES-945-119
Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S5299; text: CR S5272)
Sponsored by John Hoeven (R-ND)
What it does
This Senate resolution would designate November 7, 2026, the first Saturday of November, as "National Bison Day." It would encourage the people of the United States to observe the day with appropriate ceremonies and activities. It creates no legal duties, programs, or funding.
Who benefits
Tribal nations and members involved in bison restoration, including those in the InterTribal Buffalo Council, may gain public recognition. Private bison producers, conservation groups, and educators who hold annual National Bison Day events may gain visibility. No material legal or financial benefit is created.
Who is hurt
No group is meaningfully affected. The resolution imposes no requirements, costs, or restrictions on anyone, and observance is only encouraged.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue the designation recognizes the bison's status as the national mammal, adopted in 2016, and its cultural importance to Tribal nations. They contend that the annual observance, held since 2012, draws public attention to cooperative conservation work among Tribes, ranchers, and agencies at no cost to taxpayers.
Opponents argue
Opponents argue that commemorative resolutions take up limited Senate time and attention that could go to substantive legislation. They contend that symbolic recognition does not change conditions for bison herds or Tribal bison programs, and that such observances are better left to private groups and local communities.
Constitutional context
This resolution raises no constitutional question beyond the Senate's authority to adopt a non-binding, simple resolution expressing its own view under Article I, Section 5. It has no force of law and does not require presentment to the President.
Checks and balances
Only the Senate acts, and the resolution is non-binding, so no branch gains new authority and no external check is needed.
Historical precedent
The Senate has passed similar resolutions designating National Bison Day in prior years, and Congress enacted the National Bison Legacy Act in 2016 naming the bison the national mammal.