
Concurrent ResolutionsĬoncurrent resolutions, which are designated H.Con.Res. Joint resolutions are also used for proposing amendments to the Constitution such resolutions must be approved by two-thirds of both Chambers and three-fourths of the states, but do not require the president's signature to become part of the Constitution. The joint resolution is generally used for continuing or emergency appropriations.

There is no real difference between a joint resolution and a bill. Like a bill, a joint resolution requires the approval of both Chambers in identical form and the president's signature to become law. When bills are passed in identical form by both Chambers of Congress and signed by the president (or repassed by Congress over a presidential veto), they become laws. The title of a private bill usually begins with the phrase, "For the relief of." if a private bill is passed in identical form by both houses of Congress and is signed by the president, it becomes a private law. Private bills may also be introduced for individuals who have claims against the government, veterans' benefits claims, claims for military decorations, or taxation problems. Many private bills deal with immigration–granting citizenship or permanent residency. Individuals sometimes request relief through private legislation when administrative or legal remedies are exhausted. Public bills pertain to matters that affect the general public or classes of citizens, while private bills affect just certain individuals and organizations.Ī private bill provides benefits to specified individuals (including corporate bodies).


Bills deal with domestic and foreign issues and programs, and they also appropriate money to various government agencies and programs. The vast majority of legislative proposals are in the form of bills. when introduced in the Senate, and they are followed by a number based on the order in which they are introduced.
