Types of Congressional Bills and Resolutions

1. Bills (H.R. and S.)
Bills are the most common type of legislation. They propose new laws, amend existing ones, or repeal old statutes.
  • H.R. — House bill, introduced by a Representative.
  • S. — Senate bill, introduced by a Senator.
Only bills that pass both chambers in identical form and are signed (or overridden) become public law.
2. Joint Resolutions (H.J.Res. / S.J.Res.)
Joint resolutions follow nearly the same process as bills and carry the same legal weight when enacted.
  • Often used for short-term or specific purposes, such as continuing budget resolutions.
  • Also used to propose constitutional amendments — though these do not require presidential approval.
Constitutional amendments must be ratified by three-fourths of the states after passing Congress.
3. Concurrent Resolutions (H.Con.Res. / S.Con.Res.)
Concurrent resolutions are used for matters affecting both chambers but do not have the force of law.
  • Commonly used for budget outlines or adjournment agreements.
  • Do not go to the President for signature.
These express the joint will of both chambers, not the law of the land.
4. Simple Resolutions (H.Res. / S.Res.)
Simple resolutions deal with matters internal to a single chamber.
  • Used for rules changes, committee authorizations, or expressing opinions.
  • Only affect the chamber in which they originate.
They are not sent to the other chamber or the President.
5. Summary Table
Type Prefix Requires Presidential Signature? Can Become Law? Typical Uses
Bill H.R. / S. Yes Yes New or amended laws
Joint Resolution H.J.Res. / S.J.Res. Yes (except constitutional amendments) Yes Short-term measures, amendments
Concurrent Resolution H.Con.Res. / S.Con.Res. No No Budget frameworks, joint statements
Simple Resolution H.Res. / S.Res. No No Internal rules, policy positions
Only bills and joint resolutions can become law.