SRES-492-118
Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S5875; text: CR S5854)
Sponsored by Raphael Warnock (D-GA)
What it does
This resolution formally mourns the passing of First Lady Rosalynn Carter and extends the Senate's official condolences to her husband, former President Jimmy Carter, and her family. It honors her contributions to the United States during and after her time as First Lady. The resolution carries no legal force, creates no new law, and appropriates no funds.
Who benefits
The Carter family receives formal recognition and condolences from the U.S. Senate. Advocates for mental health awareness and caregiving — causes closely associated with Rosalynn Carter's public work — receive symbolic national acknowledgment of those issues. Historians and the public record benefit from an official congressional commemoration of her life.
Who is hurt
No individuals, groups, or organizations are negatively affected by this resolution. It imposes no mandates, costs, restrictions, or penalties on any party.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that honoring a former First Lady who dedicated decades of public service to the United States — including pioneering work on mental health policy and caregiving — is a fitting and appropriate use of the Senate's ceremonial authority. They contend that formal resolutions of this kind reflect the nation's collective respect and gratitude, provide comfort to a grieving family, and preserve an important part of American history in the congressional record.
Opponents argue
Opponents might argue that while honoring Mrs. Carter's legacy is entirely appropriate, the Senate's limited floor time could be allocated to pressing legislative business rather than ceremonial resolutions. They could contend that other forms of public tribute — such as presidential proclamations or state memorials — are equally capable of honoring a former First Lady without consuming congressional resources or floor time, however briefly.