SRES-452-119
Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S7141; text: CR S7140-7141)
Sponsored by Chuck Grassley (R-IA)
What it does
This resolution officially designates the week beginning October 19, 2025, as "National Character Counts Week." It is a simple commemorative measure with no binding legal force, no appropriation of funds, and no mandates on any person, institution, or government body. It was passed by the Senate by unanimous consent.
Who benefits
Organizations and educators who promote character education programs may receive symbolic recognition and a platform for public awareness. The "Character Counts!" program and similar youth character development initiatives could see increased visibility during the designated week.
Who is hurt
No specific group is directly or materially harmed by this resolution. As a purely symbolic measure with no legal effect, it imposes no costs, restrictions, or obligations on any individual or organization.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that designating a national week for character education sends a meaningful signal that Congress values the ethical development of young people. They contend that symbolic recognition can amplify awareness campaigns, encourage schools and communities to engage in character-building activities, and reinforce broadly shared civic values — such as honesty, responsibility, and respect — without imposing any government mandate or spending a single dollar of public funds.
Opponents argue
Opponents might argue that symbolic resolutions of this kind consume limited Senate floor time and legislative resources without producing any measurable policy outcome. They could contend that if character education is a genuine national priority, Congress should pursue substantive legislation — such as funding for evidence-based programs — rather than a non-binding designation that places no obligation on schools, states, or federal agencies and has no enforceable effect on educational outcomes.