U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

January 15, 2003 – May 25, 2023 RL31693

U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected
May 25, 2023
Congressional Votes Since 1982
Barbara Salazar Torreon
This report summarizes selected congressional roll call votes related to instances in which U.S.
Senior Research Librarian
Armed Forces have been sent abroad in potentially hostile situations. These votes reflect the type

of congressional actions that observers maintain bear directly on issues affecting policy and the
Carla Y. Davis-Castro
funding of troops abroad, often in the context of the War Powers Resolution, continued presence
Senior Research Librarian
or withdrawal of troops, and the “use of force.” The cases of Lebanon (1982-1983), Grenada

(1983), Panama (1989), the Persian Gulf War (1990-1991), Somalia (1992-1995), Haiti (1993-
1996), Bosnia (1992-1998), Kosovo (1999), the terrorist attack against the United States (2001)

(including the use of U.S. Armed Forces in Afghanistan), and the use of U.S. Armed Forces
against Iraq (2002-2003) and Iraq and Afghanistan (2001-Present) are examined, as are the revolution in Libya and its
aftermath, the uprising and war in Syria, and military action against the self-proclaimed Islamic State (or ISIS or ISIL). The
roll call votes that are available online (since 1990 in the House and 1989 in the Senate) are hyperlinked in the text.
Congressional Research Service

U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Introduction
The President and Congress have historically played different roles when sending U.S. troops into
hostile situations. The President has the power under Article II, Section 2, of the Constitution to
use the Armed Forces to repel attacks. Congress under Article I, Section 8, has the power to
declare war and raise and support the Armed Forces. The War Powers Resolution1 was enacted to
ensure that the President and Congress share decisions where U.S. troops may become involved
in hostilities.
This sharing of power has often resulted in controversy, particularly when troops are sent into
situations where there has not been a formal declaration of war. In most instances, Congress has
used its legislative prerogatives through funding mechanisms or declarations of policy either to
affirm or to place limits on presidential action. In three instances since 1982, Congress has
authorized the use of military force in advance of hostilities: the Persian Gulf War (1991),
military operations in Afghanistan (2001), and the “use of force against Iraq” resolution (2002).
In each case, however, the President has maintained that while he may have sought congressional
consultation and support, the President has the constitutional authority as Commander in Chief to
use force, including the Armed Forces of the United States, to protect U.S. national security
interests. Additionally, the executive branch has long viewed congressional enactment of defense
appropriations bills as de facto authorization for operations funded under those measures,
although Congress has often included provisions stating that no separate authorization for the use
of force is implied by the appropriation of funds.2
Related CRS products
[Archived] CRS Report RL31133, Declarations of War and Authorizations for the Use of Military
Force: Historical Background and Legal Implications, by Jennifer K. Elsea and Matthew C.
Weed
CRS Report R42699, The War Powers Resolution: Concepts and Practice, by Matthew C. Weed.
CRS Report R42738, Instances of Use of United States Armed Forces Abroad, 1798-2022, by
Barbara Salazar Torreon and Sofia Plagakis.
Report Content
This report describes the congressional debate that often surrounds the issue of employing the
U.S. military abroad. Initially written in response to a congressional request for a list of votes on
this topic from 1982-1992, this report has been updated as needed since that time. The floor votes
included are those directly related to the use and funding of U.S. troops abroad, often in the
context of the War Powers Resolution, or to their continued presence or withdrawal.
The laws, bills, and resolutions below are listed in the chronological order of the votes that were
held. Links to the actual roll call votes are provided, when available (since 1990 in the House and
1989 in the Senate). These links include each Member’s yea or nay vote.
In some cases, House or Senate votes are voice votes, and, thus, no roll call vote exists.
Moreover, the ultimate disposition of amendments listed in the report (i.e., whether such
amendments were incorporated into any final law) may not be self-evident. Some amendments

1 P.L. 93-148, November 7, 1973. For more detailed contextual and legislative history information, see CRS Report
R42699, The War Powers Resolution: Concepts and Practice, by Matthew C. Weed.
2 See Authorization for Continuing Hostilities in Kosovo, 24 Op. O.L.C. 327, 332.
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U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

may appear as considered; some may have been further amended during subsequent proceedings
or in conference; some may have been deleted in conference when one chamber receded from
that amendment. In other instances, only one chamber of Congress may have voted on a
particular measure; for example, a House or Senate simple resolution is a measure that expresses
nonbinding opinions on policies or issues and is effective only in the chamber in which it is
proposed. It does not require concurrence by the other chamber or approval by the President.
Lebanon (1982-1983)
On September 29, 1982, President Reagan deployed 1,200 marines to serve as part of a
multinational observer force to restore the sovereignty of the Lebanese government. By March
30, 1984, the mission had ended.
Related CRS products
CRS Report R44759, Lebanon: Background and U.S. Relations, by Carla E. Humud.
Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
98th
S. 639
Requires the President to seek statutory authority
Measure passed in
(P.L. 98-43)
for any substantial expansion of U.S. participation in
Senate
Lebanon
the multinational peacekeeping force in Lebanon.
May 20, 1983
Emergency
(voice vote)
Assistance Act of
Measure passed in
1983
House
June 2, 1983
276-76
(vote #153)
H.J.Res. 364
To provide statutory authority under the War
Measure passed in
Multinational Force
Powers Resolution for continued U.S. participation
House
in Lebanon
in the multinational peacekeeping force in Lebanon
September 28, 1983
Resolution
for up to 18 months after enactment.
270-161
(vote #356)
H.Amdt. 395 to
Long substitute amendment requires the President
Rejected in House
H.J.Res. 364
to invoke the War Powers Resolution by the end of September 28, 1983
November, or at the end of any month thereafter,
158-272

unless President certifies to Congress that a cease-
(vote #360)
fire was in effect and being observed by all parties,
and that significant progress was being made in
negotiations to broaden the base of Lebanese
government.
S.J.Res. 159
Authorizes the President to maintain U.S. Armed
Measure passed in
(P.L. 98-119)
Forces in Lebanon as part of a multinational
House
Multinational Force
peacekeeping force for 18 months; determines that
September 29, 1983
in Lebanon
the requirements of §4(a)(1) of the War Powers
253-156
Resolution
Resolution became operational on August 29, 1983.
(vote #370)
Measure passed in
Senate
September 29, 1983
54-46
(vote #274)
S.Amdt. 2231 to
Baker motion to kil the Byrd amendment stating
Agreed to in Senate
S.J.Res. 159
that U.S. Marines in Lebanon became engaged in
September 29, 1983
hostilities on August 29, 1983, requiring the
55-45
President to submit report to Congress under
(vote #269)
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U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
§4(a)(1) of the War Powers Resolution concerning
hostilities, and extending for 60 days from
enactment of the resolution the President’s
authority to keep U.S. forces in Lebanon.
S.Amdt. 2228 to
Baker motion to kil the Pell amendment to
Agreed to in Senate
S.J.Res. 159
authorize the U.S. Marines to remain in Lebanon
September 29, 1983
for an additional six months instead of 18.
62-38
(vote #270)
S.Amdt. 2239 to
Baker motion to kil the Tsongas amendment
Agreed to in Senate
S.J.Res. 159
stating that a purpose of the deployment of U.S.
September 29, 1983
Marines in Lebanon was “maintain a secure area
56-42
from which the Government of Lebanon can
(vote #271)
restore ful control.”
S.Amdt. 2240 to
Baker motion to kil the Levin amendment stating
Agreed to in Senate
S.J.Res. 159
that “actual or imminent hostilities involving U.S.
September 29, 1983
armed forces” began on August 29, 1983.
54-45
(vote #272)
S.Amdt. 2233 to
Baker motion to kil Eagleton amendment to allow
Agreed to in Senate
S.J.Res. 159
the U.S. to take such “defensive measures as may
September 29, 1983
be appropriate” to protect the multinational
66-34
peacekeeping force in Lebanon rather than
(vote #273)
“protective” measures; would require the President
to report to Congress periodically on the results of
efforts to secure removal of all foreign forces from
Lebanon.
H.Amdt. 494 to
Long amendment to prohibit funds for deployment
Rejected in House
H.R. 4185
of U.S. Armed Forces participating in the
November 2, 1983
Department of
multinational peacekeeping force in Lebanon after
153-274
Defense
March 1, 1984.
(vote #441)
Appropriations for
FY1984
Grenada (1983)
On October 25, 1983, President Reagan sent U.S. Marines and Army troops to Grenada in order
to protect American lives and restore law and order at the request of the Organization of Eastern
Caribbean States. All U.S. troops were removed from Grenada by December 15, 1983.
Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
98th
S.Amdt. 2462 to
Hart amendment to invoke the War
Agreed to in Senate
H.J.Res. 308
Powers Resolution with respect to
October 28, 1983
(P.L. 98-161)
American military involvement in Grenada.
64-20
Joint resolution
(vote #321)
increasing the
Senate receded on inclusion
statutory limit on
of amendment in conference
the public debt
committee consideration (H.
Rpt. 98-566)
H.J.Res. 402
Declared that the requirements of §4(a)(1)
Measure passed in House
of the War Powers Resolution became
November 1, 1983
operative on October 25, 1983, when U.S.
403-23
Armed Forces were introduced into
(vote #437)
Grenada.
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U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Panama (1989)
On December 20, 1989, President George H.W. Bush deployed 14,000 U.S. military forces to
Panama in order to protect American lives, restore Panamanian democracy, and apprehend
General Manuel Noriega. Congress did not immediately react to the situation, as the 101st
Congress, first session had ended on November 22, 1989; the second session of the 101st
Congress did not begin until January 23, 1990. The 14,000 U.S. troops were removed from
Panama by February 13, 1990.
Related CRS products
CRS In Focus IF10430, Panama: An Overview, by Mark P. Sullivan.
[Archived] CRS Report RL30981, Panama: Political and Economic Conditions and U.S.
Relations Through 2012, by Mark P. Sullivan.
Bill and
Congress
Title
Description and Comments
Votes
101st
H.Con.Res.
Expresses sadness over the loss of U.S. soldiers’ lives as a
Measure agreed to in
262
result of Operation Just Cause and commends the
House
President for his efforts to provide for the early return of
February 7, 1990
the remaining U.S. troops from Panama.
389-26
(vote #12)
Persian Gulf War (1990-1991)
On August 2, 1990, Iraqi troops invaded Kuwait, seized its oil fields, ousted the Kuwaiti
leadership, installed a new government in Kuwait City, and massed troops on the Saudi Arabian
border. On August 9, President Bush reported that he had deployed U.S. troops to the region.
Legislation in late 1990 (101st Congress, second session) focused on imposing sanctions against
Iraq, in seeking the withdrawal of Iraqi forces from the area, and in supporting the President in
carrying out the provisions of the relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions. On
January 12, 1991 (102nd Congress, first session), the Congress authorized the “use of force”
against Iraq in advance of the outbreak of hostilities with Iraq on January 16.
Related CRS products
CRS Report RS21513, Kuwait: Governance, Security, and U.S. Policy, by Kenneth Katzman.
Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
101st
S.Res. 318
“Commends the President for his initial actions and Measure agreed to in
Resolution to
urges the President to act immediately, using
Senate
condemn Iraq’s
unilateral and multilateral measures, to seek the ful
August 2, 1990
invasion of Kuwait
and unconditional withdrawal of all Iraqi forces from 97-0
Kuwaiti territory . . involving air, sea, and land
(vote #211)
forces as may be needed to maintain or restore
international peace and security in the region.”
H.J.Res. 658
Supports the deployment of U.S. Armed Forces to
Measure passed in
United States
the Persian Gulf region and expresses appreciation
House
Policy on Iraqi
to such forces.
October 1, 1990
Aggression
380-29
Resolution
(vote #394)
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U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
101st
S.Con.Res. 147
Supports continued action by the President to deter Measure agreed to in
Iraqi aggression and to protect American lives and
Senate
interests in the region.
October 2, 1990
96-3
(vote #258)
102nd
H.J.Res. 77
Joint resolution to authorize the use of United
Measure passed in
(P.L. 102-1)
States Armed Forces pursuant to United Nations
House
Authorization for
Security Council Resolution 678.
January 12, 1991
Use of Military
250-183
Force Against Iraq
(vote #9)
Resolution
H.Con.Res. 32
Finds that the Constitution vests all power to
Measure agreed to in
declare war in the Congress. Declares that any
House
offensive action against Iraq must be explicitly
January 12, 1991
approved in advance by the Congress.
302-131
(vote #7)
H.Con.Res. 33
Authorizes the continued use of American military
Measure rejected in
force to enforce the United Nations economic
House
embargo against Iraq, to defend Saudi Arabia from
January 12, 1991
direct Iraqi attack, and to protect American forces
183-250
in the region. Declares that (1) the Constitution
(vote #8)
requires the President to obtain authorization from
the Congress before initiating new offensive military
action or waging war against Iraq or Iraqi forces and
(2) the Congress does not rule out the enactment
at a later time of a declaration of war or other
congressional authorization for the use of force.
S.J.Res. 1
Authorizes the use of American military force to
Measure rejected by
enforce the United Nations economic embargo
Senate
against Iraq, defend Saudi Arabia from direct Iraqi
January 12, 1991
attack, and protect American forces in the region.
46-53
Declares that (1) the Constitution vests all power
(vote #1)
to declare war in the Congress and (2) the
Congress wil expeditiously consider any
presidential request for a declaration of war or for
authority to use military force against Iraq.
S.J.Res. 2
Authorizes the President to use U.S. Armed Forces
Measure passed in
Authorization for
against Iraq pursuant to United Nations Security
Senate
Use of Military
Council Resolution 678.
January 12, 1991
Force Against Iraq
52-4
Resolution
(vote #2)
117th
H.R.3261
This bil repeals the January 14, 1991, resolution the
Bil passed in House
Authorization for the Use of Military Force against
after motion to
Iraq (P.L. 102-1).
suspend the rules and

pass certain bil s and
agree to resolution
June 29, 2021
366 - 46
(vote #191)
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U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Somalia (1992-1995)
On December 10, 1992, President George H.W. Bush reported that he had deployed U.S. troops
into Somalia on December 8, in response to United Nations Security Council Resolution 794,
which authorized the Secretary General to “use all necessary means to establish as soon as
possible a secure environment for humanitarian relief operations in Somalia” and to provide
military forces for accomplishing this mission. U.S. troops were deployed to assist United
Nations Forces in Somalia (UNOSOM) throughout 1993 and 1994, ending on March 3, 1995.
Related CRS products
CRS In Focus IF10155, Somalia, by Lauren Ploch Blanchard.
CRS Report R45428, Sub-Saharan Africa: Key Issues and U.S. Engagement, coordinated by
Tomás F. Husted.
Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
103rd
S.J.Res. 45
Joint resolution authorizing the use of U.S. Armed
Measure passed in
Forces in Somalia pursuant to United Nations
Senate
Security Council Resolution 794 providing for a
February 4, 1993
secure environment to deliver relief supplies into
(voice vote)
Somalia. The House reported version authorized U.S.
Measure passed in
troops under the War Powers Resolution, but
House
terminated such authorization at the earlier of (1) end May 25, 1993
of one year from date of enactment of the act unless
243-179
extended by Congress; or (2) expiration of the
(vote #183)
United Nations-led force in Somalia.
H.Amdt. 66 to
Gilman substitute amendment to reduce from one
Rejected in House
S.J.Res. 45
year to six months authorization for U.S. participation May 25, 1993
and to delete the section of the bil complying with
179-248
the War Powers Resolution.
(vote #179)
H.Amdt. 67 to
Roth amendment to end the U.S. troop authorization
Rejected in House
S.J.Res. 45
and financial aid in Somalia on June 30, 1993.
May 25, 1993
127-299
(vote #180)
H.Amdt. 68 to
Solomon amendment to commend U.S. Armed
Agreed to in House
S.J.Res. 45
Forces for establishing a secure environment for
May 25, 1993
humanitarian relief in Somalia.
425-0
(vote #181)
H.Amdt. 68 to
Separate vote at request of Walker on amendment
Agreed to in House
S.J.Res. 45
adopted by Solomon in Committee of the Whole to
May 25, 1993
commend U.S. forces for establishing a secure
419-0
environment for humanitarian relief in Somalia.
(vote #182)
S.Amdt. 790 to
Byrd amendment to the Byrd amendment expressing
Agreed to in Senate
S. 1298
sense of Senate that the President should outline
September 9, 1993
National Defense
goals, objectives, and duration of deployment of U.S.
90-7
Authorization Act
troops in Somalia and report to Congress by October (vote #252)
for Fiscal Year
15, 1993; President should ask for and receive
1994
congressional authorization for continued deployment
in Somalia by November 15, 1993; U.S. participation
would terminate if Congress failed to authorize such
continued involvement.
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U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
H.R. 2401
Adoption of National Defense Authorization Act for
Measure passed in
(P.L. 103-160)
FY1994 including text of Byrd Amendment (S.Amdt.
House
National Defense
790 to S. 1298) as §1512.
September 29, 1993
Authorization Act
268-162
for FY1994
(vote #474)
Measure passed
Senate
October 6, 1993
(voice vote)
H.Amdt. 319 to
Gephardt amendment requiring the President to
Agreed to in House
H.R. 2401
report to Congress by October 15, 1993, on goals,
September 28, 1993
objectives, and duration of U.S. Armed Forces in
406-26
Somalia and expressing sense of Congress that the
(vote #463)
President should seek congressional authorization by
November 15, 1993, for continued deployment in
Somalia.
H.Amdt. 319 to
Separate vote at request of Walker on Gephardt
Agreed to in House
H.R. 2401
amendment (see above) adopted in the Committee of September 29, 1993
the Whole.
405-23
(vote #472)

Spence motion to recommit bil to House Armed
Rejected in House
Services with instructions to report back with
September 29, 1993
amendment requiring the President to certify that it is 192-238
vital and necessary to protect U.S. national interests
(vote #473)
before placing U.S. troops under control of a foreign
national on behalf of the United Nations.
H.R. 3116
§8151 states the purposes for which Congress
Conference report
(P.L. 103-139)
approves of the use of U.S. forces in Somalia.
agreed to in House
Department of
by voice vote on
Defense
November 10, 1993;
Appropriations for
agreed to in Senate
FY1994
on same date
88-9
(vote #368)

Thurmond motion to kil McCain amendment
Agreed to in Senate
(S.Amdt. 1043) to prohibit funding of U.S. military
October 15, 1993
operations in Somalia except for withdrawal of all U.S. 61-38
troops.
(vote #313)
S.Amdt. 1042 to
Byrd amendment to prohibit funding of U.S. military
Agreed to in Senate
H.R. 3116
operations in Somalia after March 31, 1994, except
October 15, 1993
for limited purposes if the President requests and
76-23
Congress authorizes an extension; requires U.S.
(vote #314)
forces to be under command of U.S. commanders.
H.Con.Res. 170
Concurrent resolution directing the President
Measure agreed to in
pursuant to §5(c) of the War Powers Resolution to
House
remove U.S. Armed Forces from Somalia by January
November 9, 1993
31, 1994.
(voice vote)
H.Amdt. 384 to
Gilman amendment to change deadline for removal of
Agreed to in House
H.Con.Res. 170
U.S. troops in Somalia from March 31, 1994, to
224-203
January 31, 1994.
November 9, 1993
(vote #555)
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U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
H.Amdt. 385 to
Hamilton substitute amendment to change deadline
Agreed to in House
H.Con.Res. 170
for removal of U.S. troops back to March 31, 1994,
226-201
from January 31, 1994; substituted by Gilman.
November 9, 1993
(vote #556)
H.R. 3759
Chapter 3 of the Act appropriates funds for
Measure passed in
(P.L. 103-211)
Department of Defense operations in Somalia, Bosnia, House
Emergency
Iraq, and Haiti.
February 3, 1994
Supplemental
337-74
Appropriations
(vote #13)
Act for FY1994
Measure passed
Senate
February 10, 1994
85-10
(vote #45)
H.Amdt. 424 to
Frank amendment to delete $1.2 bil ion for
Rejected in House
H.R. 3759
peacekeeping and humanitarian assistance in Somalia,
February 3, 1994
Bosnia, Iraq, and Haiti.
158-260
(vote #8)
S.Amdt. 1453 to
Feingold amendment to eliminate $1.2 bil ion for
Rejected in Senate
H.R. 3759
peacekeeping operations in Somalia, Bosnia, Iraq, and
February 10, 1994
Haiti.
19-76
(vote #40)
H.R. 4650
§8135 “None of the funds appropriated by this Act
Measure passed in
(P.L. 103-335)
may be used for the continuous presence in Somalia
Senate
Department of
of United States military personnel, except for the
August 11, 1994
Defense
protection of United States personnel, after
86-14
Appropriations for
September 30, 1994.”
(vote #282)
FY1995
Agreed to in House
September 29, 1994
327-86
(vote #446)
S.Amdt. 2538 to
Kempthorne amendment prohibiting funds from
Agreed to in Senate
H.R. 4650
supporting the continued presence of U.S. troops in
August 10, 1994
Somalia after September 30, 1994.
54-44
(vote #278)
Haiti (1993-1996)
On October 20, 1993, President Bill Clinton reported that U.S. ships had begun enforcing a
United Nations embargo against Haiti. On September 19, 1994, President Clinton had deployed
1,500 troops to Haiti to restore democracy; that level was ultimately increased to over 20,000. By
March 21, 1995, U.S. troops were reduced to under 5,300 and incorporated into the United
Nations Multinational Force in Haiti. By September 21, 1995, they were reduced to under 2,500
personnel. U.S. troops ended their deployment to Haiti by April 17, 1996.
Related CRS products
CRS Report R45034, Haiti’s Political and Economic Conditions, by Maureen Taft-Morales.
[Archived] CRS Report RL32294, Haiti: Developments and U.S. Policy Since 1991 and Current
Congressional Concerns, by Maureen Taft-Morales and Clare Ribando Seelke.
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CRS In Focus IF12182, Haiti: Political Conflict and U.S. Policy Overview, by Clare Ribando
Seelke and Maureen Taft-Morales.
Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
103rd
H.R. 3116
§8147 states sense of Congress that funds
Conference report
(P.L. 103-139)
appropriated by the Act should not be
(including Mitchell
Department of
obligated or expended for U.S. military
amendment, see below)
Defense
operations in Haiti unless Congress has
agreed to in House by
Appropriations for
authorized such operations in advance or under voice vote on
FY1994
certain conditions, including the President
November 10, 1993;
submitting a required report to Congress.
agreed to in Senate on
same date
88-9
(vote #368)
S.Amdt. 1072 to
Helms amendment to prohibit funding any U.S.
Rejected in Senate
H.R. 3116
military operations in Haiti unless Congress
October 21, 1993
explicitly authorizes such action or the
19-81
President certifies to Congress that U.S.
(vote #321)
citizens are in danger.
S.Amdt. 1074 to
Dole amendment expressing sense of Congress
Agreed to in Senate
H.R. 3116
that Congress should authorize all U.S. military
October 21, 1993
operations in Haiti unless U.S. citizens are in
98-2
imminent danger or that the President reports
(vote #322)
that such deployment is justified by U.S.
national security interests.
H.R. 3759
Chapter 3 appropriates funds for Department
Measure passed in
(P.L. 103-211)
of Defense operations in Somalia, Bosnia, Iraq,
House
Emergency
and Haiti.
February 3, 1994
Supplemental
337-74
Appropriations Act
(vote #13)
for FY1994
Measure passed in
Senate
February 10, 1994
85-10
(vote #45)
H.Amdt. 424 to
Frank amendment to delete $1.2 bil ion for
Rejected in House
H.R. 3759
peacekeeping and humanitarian assistance in
February 3, 1994
Haiti, Bosnia, Somalia, and Iraq.
158-260
(vote #8)
S.Amdt. 1453 to
Feingold amendment eliminating $1.2 bil ion for
Rejected in Senate
H.R. 3759
peacekeeping operations in Haiti, Bosnia,
February 10, 1994
Somalia, and Iraq.
19-76
(vote #40)
H.R. 4301
House engrossed measure did not include the
Measure passed in
National Defense
Goss amendment (H.Amdt. 574).
House
Authorization Act for
June 9, 1994
FY1995
260-158
(vote #226)
H.Amdt. 575 to
Substitute amendment to the Goss amendment
Rejected in House
H.R. 4301
(see below) sought to express the sense of
May 24, 1994
Congress that the U.S. should not attack Haiti
191-236
except in a case of a clear and present danger.
(vote #196)
H.Amdt. 574 to
Goss amendment expressing sense of Congress Agreed to in House
H.R. 4301
that the United States with the Organization of
May 24, 1994
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U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
American States and the United Nations should 223-201
establish a safe haven for Haitian refugees on Ile (vote #197)
de la Gonâve; establish legitimate Haitian
administration to govern; the President should
not undertake any military action against Haiti
unless it presents a clear and present danger to
the United States.
H.Amdt. 574 to
Separate vote at request of Dellums on the
Rejected in House
H.R. 4301
amendment offered by Goss, previously voted
June 9, 1994
on at rol call vote #197 above.
195-226
(vote #224)
H.R. 4426
Mitchell amendment (S.Amdt. 2118) was
Measure passed in
(P.L. 103-306)
included in the Senate engrossed version of the
Senate
Foreign Operations,
bil . The conference agreement on the Act
July 15, 1994
Export Financing, and
removed the Senate language (H. Rept. 103-
84-9
Related Programs
633).
(vote #203)
Appropriations for
FY1995
S.Amdt. 2117 to
Gregg amendment to prohibit military action in
Rejected in Senate
H.R. 4426
Haiti unless the operations are authorized in
June 29, 1994
advance by Congress or U.S. citizens are in
34-65
imminent danger or the President reports that
(vote #172)
such deployment is justified by U.S. national
security.
S.Amdt. 2118 to
Mitchell amendment expressing sense of
Agreed to in Senate
H.R. 4426
Congress that Congress should authorize all
June 29, 1994
U.S. military operations in Haiti unless U.S.
93-4
citizens are in imminent danger or the
(vote #173)
President reports that such deployment is
justified by U.S. national security.
H.R. 4624

Measure passed in
(P.L. 103-327)
Senate
Department of
August 4, 1994
Veterans Affairs
86-9
Appropriations for
(vote #262)
FY1995
S.Amdt. 2445 to
Dole amendment expressing sense of Senate
Agreed to in Senate
H.R. 4624
that United Nations Security Council
August 3, 1994
Resolution 940 did not constitute authorization
100-0
for deployment of U.S. forces in Haiti under
(vote #254)
the Constitution or the War Powers
Resolution.
H.R. 4606
McCain motion to kil Specter amendment
Agreed to in Senate
(P.L. 103-333)
(S.Amdt. 2460) barring the President from
August 5, 1994
Departments of
deploying U.S. troops to restore legitimately
63-31
Labor, Health and
elected Haitian government unless authorized
(vote #263)
Human Services, and
by Congress, unless vital to national security
Education
interests, or to protect lives of U.S. citizens.
Appropriations for
FY1995
H.Con.Res. 290
Concurrent resolution commending the
Measure agreed to in
President and the special delegation to Haiti;
House
supporting U.S. Armed Forces in Haiti;
September 19, 1994
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10

U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
supporting an orderly withdrawal of U.S. forces
353-45
as soon as possible.
(vote #424)
S.Res. 259
Resolution expressing sense of the Senate
Measure agreed to in
supporting U.S. forces in Haiti; commending the Senate
special delegation led by former President
September 21, 1994
Carter; supporting lifting of economic sanctions 94-5
on Haiti; supporting prompt and orderly
(vote #301)
withdrawal of all U.S. forces.
S.J.Res. 229
Joint resolution expressing sense of Congress
Measure passed in
(P.L. 103-423)
for a prompt and orderly withdrawal of all U.S.
Senate
Joint resolution
forces from Haiti as soon as possible; requires
October 6, 1994
regarding United
President to submit reports to Congress on
91-8
States policy toward
the scope and duration of U.S. mission in Haiti. (vote #323)
Haiti
Measure passed in
House
October 7, 1994
(voice vote)
H.J.Res. 416
Joint resolution expressing sense of Congress
Measure passed in
Limited Authorization that all U.S. troops should be promptly and
House
for the United States-
orderly withdrawn from Haiti as soon as
October 7, 1994
led Force in Haiti
possible; President should have sought
236-182
Resolution
congressional approval before deployment of
(vote #500)
troops; requires the President to submit
statement of national security objectives of
Operation Uphold Democracy within seven
days of enactment.
H.Amdt. 922 to
Gilman amendment expressing sense of
Rejected in House
H.J.Res. 416
Congress that President should not have
October 6, 1994
ordered U.S. troops to occupy Haiti and should 205-225
immediately begin the safe and orderly
(vote #497)
withdrawal of all U.S. forces; provides for
consideration of joint resolution to be
introduced January 21, 1995, which if enacted,
would prohibit continued use of U.S. troops in
Haiti within 30 days.
H.Amdt. 923 to
Dellums amendment expressing sense of
Agreed to in House
H.J.Res. 416
Congress that all U.S. troops should be
October 6, 1994
promptly and orderly withdrawn from Haiti;
258-167
President should have sought congressional
(vote #498)
approval before deploying troops; requires
President to submit to Congress within seven
days of enactment a statement on national
objectives of Operation Uphold Democracy
and monthly progress reports.
H.Amdt. 924 to
Torricelli amendment authorizing the presence
Rejected in House
H.J.Res. 416
of U.S. troops in Haiti until March 1, 1995,
October 7, 1994
unless President determines and certifies to
27-398
Congress that continued presence is essential
(vote #499)
to protect U.S. citizens or vital to national
security interests.
Congressional Research Service

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U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Bosnia (1992-1998)
The civil war in the former Yugoslav Republic of Bosnia-Herzegovina resulted in U.S. military
participation in various efforts over several years to halt the fighting. The United States
participated in both United Nations and NATO actions without explicit congressional
authorization. Beginning in 1992, the United Nations Security Council adopted Resolution 770,
which called on all nations to take “all measures necessary” to facilitate the delivery of
humanitarian assistance to Sarajevo. On August 11, 1992, the Senate passed S.Res. 330, which
urged the President to work for such a resolution and pledged funds for participation, but also
said that no U.S. military personnel should be introduced into hostilities without clearly defined
objectives.
On the same day, the House passed H.Res. 554, which urged the Security Council to authorize
measures, including the use of force, to ensure humanitarian relief. As the conflict in Bosnia
continued and escalated over the next several years, U.S. troops were sent to participate in NATO
and United Nations peacekeeping missions. Consequently, leaders in Congress began calling for
greater congressional involvement in decisions.
In 1994, for example, the Senate passed S. 2042, which called for the United States to end
unilaterally its arms embargo with Bosnia; the Senate also passed an amendment to S. 2042
which stated that no ground combat troops should be deployed to Bosnia unless previously
authorized by Congress. The House did not act on the measure. With the signing of the Dayton
Peace Agreement for Bosnia on December 14, 1995, NATO took over the ground operation from
UNPROFOR (United Nations Protection Force). Consequently, in late 1995, over 20,000 U.S.
combat troops were sent to Bosnia as part of the NATO-led peacekeeping force. In December
1995, Congress considered and voted on a number of bills and resolutions, but the House and
Senate could not come to consensus on any single measure. In 1996, President Clinton agreed to
provide up to 8,500 ground troops to participate in the NATO-led follow-on force in Bosnia
termed the Stabilization Force (SFOR).
Subsequent efforts by both the House and Senate to require the President to either limit funding
for the Bosnia operations or to bring the troops home did not succeed. On March 18, 1998, for
example, the House defeated by a vote of 193-225 H.Con.Res. 227, which would have directed
the President to remove U.S. Armed Forces from the Republic of Bosnia-Herzegovina, pursuant
to Section 5(c) of the War Powers Resolution.
On July 22, 2002, President Bush reported to Congress that U.S. Armed Forces contributions to
SFOR in Bosnia-Herzegovina were approximately 2,400 personnel. U.S. troops ended their
mission in Bosnia-Herzegovina when SFOR was replaced by the European Union Force (EUFOR
Althea) in 2004. The following table includes legislation of what was introduced and voted on
during the 102nd Congress-105th Congresses (1992-1998).
Related CRS products
CRS Report R45691, Bosnia and Herzegovina: Background and U.S. Policy, by Sarah E.
Garding.
[Archived] CRS Report RS21774, Bosnia and the European Union Military Force (EUFOR):
Post-NATO Peacekeeping, by Julie Kim.
[Archived] CRS Report 96-723, Bosnia Implementation Force (IFOR) and Stabilization Force
(SFOR): Activities of the 104th Congress, by Julie Kim.
Congressional Research Service

12

U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
102nd
S.Res. 330
Expresses the sense of the Senate that the
Measure agreed to in
President should call upon the United
Senate
Nations to authorize all means, including
August 11, 1992
multinational military action, to ensure the
74-22
flow of humanitarian relief in Bosnia-
(vote #186)
Herzegovina and to gain access for U.N. and
International Red Cross personnel to refugee
and war camps.
S.Amdt. 2925 to
Warner amendment to express the Senate’s
Agreed to in Senate
S.Res. 330
support for six measures by the
August 10, 1992
Administration to help resolve Balkan Crisis
90-5
as stated by President Bush on August 6.
(vote #184)
S.Amdt. 2929 to
Stevens amendment to express the sense of
Agreed to in Senate
S.Res. 330
the Senate that the United States wil provide August 11, 1992
necessary funds for U.S. participation in
82-13
humanitarian and multilateral military action
(vote #185)
in Bosnia-Herzegovina as mandated by the
United Nations.
103rd
H.R. 3116
Making appropriations for the Department of Measure passed in
(P.L. 103-139)
Defense for the fiscal year ending September
House
Department of Defense
30, 1994. Includes Mitchell amendment
September 30, 1993
Appropriations Act,
below as §8146.
325-102
1994
(vote #480)
Senate agreed to
conference report
November 10, 1993
88-9
(vote #368)
S.Amdt. 1073 to
Mitchell amendment to express the sense of
Agreed to in Senate
H.R. 3116
Congress that none of the funds in the bil
October 20, 1993
should be used to deploy U.S. troops in
99-1
Bosnia-Herzegovina unless authorized by
(vote #320)
Congress, except for humanitarian missions
started before October 20, 1993.
S. 2042
A bil to remove the United States arms
Measure passed in
embargo of the government of Bosnia-
Senate
Herzegovina.
May 12, 1994
(voice vote)
S.Amdt. 1696
Mitchell amendment directs the President to
Agreed to in Senate
to S. 2042
seek agreement of NATO allies to terminate
May 10, 1994
the international arms embargo on the
50-49
Government of Bosnia-Herzegovina, direct
(vote #110)
the President to seek a U.N. Security
Council resolution to terminate the arms
embargo and authorize U.S. air power to
implement NATO exclusion zones and to
protect U.N. forces, but prohibit the
deployment of U.S. ground combat forces
without congressional authorization.
103rd
S.Amdt. 1695
Dole amendment to require the President to
Agreed to in Senate
to S. 2042
terminate the U.S. arms embargo of Bosnia-
May 12, 1994
Herzegovina upon receipt of a request from
50-49
that government for assistance in its right of
(vote #111)
self-defense and to prohibit interference with
Congressional Research Service

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U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
the transfer of conventional arms by the
executive branch. The amendment also
states that nothing in the amendment shall be
interpreted as an authorization for the
deployment of U.S. forces.
104th
H.R. 2076
Making appropriations for the Departments
Measure passed in
Departments of
of Commerce, Justice, and State, the
House
Commerce, Justice, and
Judiciary, and related agencies for the fiscal
July 26, 1995
State, the Judiciary, and
year ending September 30, 1996, and for
272-151
Related Agencies
other purposes. Gregg amendment
(vote #585)
Appropriations Act,
(S.Amdt. 2842) included in enrol ed bil as
Measure passed in
1996
§409.
Senate
September 29, 1995
(voice vote)
House adopted
conference report
December 6, 1995
256-166
(vote #841)
Senate adopted
conference report
December 7, 1995
50-48
(vote #591)
Vetoed by President
December 19, 1995
House failed to override
veto
January 3, 1996
240-159
(vote #4)
104th
S.Amdt. 2842 to
Gregg amendment to express the sense of
Agreed to in Senate
H.R. 2076
the Senate that U.S. troops should not be
September 29, 1995
deployed to Bosnia-Herzegovina unless
94-2
Congress approves deployment or
(vote #479)
temporary deployment is necessary to
evacuate U.N. peacekeeping forces from
imminent danger, to undertake air rescue
operations, or to provide humanitarian
supplies.
H.Res. 247
Expresses the sense of the House that of
Measure agreed to in
Representatives relating to the deployment
House
of the U.S. armed forces on the ground in
October 30, 1995
the territory of the Republic of Bosnia-
315-103
Herzegovina is not a prerequisite to enforce
(vote #745)
a peace agreement.” Gilman motion to
suspend the rules and adopt the resolution
that a successful outcome for the Bosnia
peace talks should not assume the
deployment of U.S. troops, and that any
deployment should be authorized by
Congress.
H.R. 2606
To prohibit the use of funds appropriated to
Measure passed in
the Department of Defense from being used
House
for the deployment on the ground of U.S.
November 17, 1995
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U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
Armed Forces in the Republic of Bosnia-
243-171
Herzegovina as part of any peacekeeping
(vote #814)
operations, or as part of any implementation
Measure rejected in
force, unless funds for such deployment are
Senate
specifically appropriated by law.
December 13, 1995
22-77
(vote #601)
H.R. 2770
To prohibit federal funds from being used for Measure rejected in
the deployment on the ground of U.S.
House
Armed Forces in the Republic of Bosnia-
December 13, 1995
Herzegovina as part of any peacekeeping
210-218
operations, or as part of any implementation
(vote #856)
force.

H.Res. 302
Relating to the deployment of the U.S.
Measure agreed to in
Armed Forces in and around the territory of
House
the Republic of Bosnia-Herzegovina to
December 13, 1995
enforce the peace agreement between the
287-141
parties to the conflict. The House has
(vote #857)
“serious concerns and opposition” to the
President’s policy to deploy U.S. ground
troops to Bosnia and that the U.S.
government should be “impartial and
evenhanded with all parties” in the conflict as
necessary ... to assure the safety” of U.S.
troops.
S.Con.Res. 35
A concurrent resolution expressing the
Measure rejected in
opposition of the Congress to President
Senate
Clinton’s planned deployment of United
December 13, 1995
States ground forces to Bosnia while also
47-52
expressing congressional support for the U.S. (vote #602)
troops ordered by the President to help
implement the Bosnia peace agreement.
H.Res. 306
Expressing the sense of the House of that
Measure rejected in
while some Members of Congress have
House
questions and concerns about the
December 14, 1995
deployment of U.S. Armed Forces to Bosnia,
190-237
the House unequivocally supports the men
(vote #858)
and women of the U.S. Armed Forces
serving there.
104th
S.J.Res. 44
A joint resolution expressing support for
Measure passed in
U.S. troops in Bosnia and reservations about
Senate
the deployment of such troops. The measure December 14, 1995
would also limit the deployment to
69-30
“approximately one year” and require the
(vote #603)
President to limit the use of U.S. troops in
Bosnia to the enforcement of the military
provisions of the peace agreement and
provide an exit strategy from Bosnia that
would include an international effort to
achieve a military balance in Bosnia by arming
the federation of Bosnia.

H.R. 1119
Conferees included agreed upon provisions
Measure passed in
105th
(P.L. 105-85)
on Bosnia-Herzegovina as Subtitle A of Title
House,
National Defense
XII. Text of Buyer amendment (H.Amdt.
June 25, 1997
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U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
Authorization Act for
203) was not included as adopted by the
304-120
Fiscal Year 1998
House.
(vote #236)
Measure passed in
Senate
July 11, 1997
(unanimous consent)
House adopted
conference report
October 28, 1997
286-123
(vote #534)
Senate adopted
conference report
November 6, 1997
90-10
(vote #296)
105th
H.Amdt. 204 to H.R.
Hil eary substitute amendment to the Buyer
Rejected in House
1119
amendment to prohibit the obligation of
June 24, 1997
funds for ground deployment of U.S. troops
196-231
in Bosnia after December 31, 1997, unless
(vote #233)
the President submits a report to Congress
requesting an extension of funding. The
Hil eary amendment would require the
extension to be approved by a joint
resolution of Congress and would permit
deployment for an additional 180 days or
until June 30, 1998.
[Appears as Amendment No. 9, printed in
Part 1 of H.Rept. 105-137]
H.Amdt. 203 to H.R.
Buyer amendment to prohibit funding for
Agreed to in House
1119
U.S. ground troops in Bosnia after June 30,
June 24, 1997
1998.
278-148
[Appears as Amendment No. 8, printed in
(vote #234)
Part 1 of H.Rept. 105-137]
S. 936
(§1083) Expresses the sense of Congress
Measure passed in
National Defense
that U.S. troops “should not participate in a
Senate
Authorization Act for
fol ow-on force in Bosnia and Herzegovina
July 11, 1997
Fiscal Year 1998
after June 1998.”
94-4
(vote #173)
105th
H.R. 2266
Making appropriations for the Department of Measure passed in
(P.L. 105-56)
Defense for the fiscal year ending September
House
Department of Defense
30, 1998, and for other purposes. §8132 of
July 29, 1997
Appropriations Act,
the enrol ed bil /conference report would cut 322-105
1998
off funding for U.S. troops in Bosnia after
(vote #338)
June 30, 1998, but would permit the
Measure passed in
President to request further funding.
Senate
Provision was not affected by line item veto.
July 29, 1997
(unanimous consent)
House agreed to
conference report
September 25, 1997
56-65
(vote #442)
Congressional Research Service

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U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
Senate agreed to
conference report
September 25, 1997
93-5
(vote #258)
P.L. 105-56 Line item
veto by the President
October 21, 1997
H.Con.Res. 227
Directed the President, pursuant to §5(c) of
Measure rejected in
Bosnia and Herzegovina the War Powers Resolution, to remove U.S.
House
U.S. Troop Removal bil Armed Forces from the Republic of Bosnia-
March 18, 1998
Herzegovina.
193-225
(vote #58)
S.Amdt. 2316 to
Craig amendment to add language to the
Rejected in Senate
Treaty 105-36
resolution of ratification that would require
April 30, 1998
Protocols to the NATO Congress and the President to enact
20-80
Treaty of 1949 on
legislation specifically authorizing the
(vote #110)
Accession of Poland,
continued deployment of U.S. troops in
Hungary, and Czech
Bosnia before the United States ratifies the
Republic
NATO expansion treaty.
105th
S.Amdt. 2328 to
B. Smith amendment to add language to the
Rejected in Senate
Treaty 105-36
resolution of ratification that would require
April 30, 1998
Protocols to the NATO both houses of Congress to vote on
16-83
Treaty of 1949 on
legislation, prior to ratification of NATO
(vote #116)
Accession of Poland,
expansion, that would authorize continued
Hungary, and Czech
U.S. troop deployments to Bosnia.
Republic
H.R. 3616
Frank motion to recommit the bil to the
Rejected in House
(P.L. 105-261)
National Security Committee with
May 21, 1998
Strom Thurmond
instructions to report it back with an
167-251
National Defense
amendment that no funds appropriated for
(vote #182)
Authorization Act for
the Department of Defense for FY1999 may
Fiscal Year 1999
be used for the deployment of U.S. Armed
Forces in the Republic of Bosnia-Herzegovina
after December 31, 1998, unless a law has
been enacted that explicitly authorizes the
deployment of such Armed Forces.
S. 2057
To authorize appropriations for FY1999 for
Measure passed in
National Defense
military activities of the Department of
Senate
Authorization Act for
Defense and for other purposes.
June 25, 1998
Fiscal Year 1999
Includes amended version of Thurmond
88-4
amendment.
(vote #181)
S.Amdt. 2975 to S.
Thurmond amendment to express the sense
Agreed to in Senate
2057
of Congress that U.S. ground forces should
June 24, 1998
not remain in Bosnia indefinitely, and that the 90-5
President should work with NATO to
(vote #170)
withdraw U.S. forces “within a reasonable
period of time.”
105th
S. 2132
Making appropriations for the Department of Indefinitely postponed in
Department of Defense
Defense for the fiscal year ending September
Senate
Appropriations Act,
30, 1999 and for other purposes.
July 30, 1998
1999
(unanimous consent)
Congressional Research Service

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U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes

McCain motion to table (kil ) the Hutchison
Agreed to in Senate
amendment (S.Amdt. 3413) that would
July 30, 1998
require the President to reduce U.S. combat
68-31
forces in Bosnia to 6,500 by February 2,
(vote #249)
1999, and by 5,000 by October 1, 1999.
Kosovo (1999)
On March 24, 1999, President Clinton ordered U.S. military forces to begin air strikes against the
Federal Republic of Yugoslavia (Serbia and Montenegro) in cooperation with the NATO-led
operation. The strike was ordered in response to Yugoslavia’s campaign of violence against ethnic
Albanians in the province of Kosovo. On June 3, 1999, Yugoslavia agreed to a peace plan calling
for withdrawal of Yugoslav forces from Kosovo to include an international peacekeeping force.
On June 10, 1999, NATO air strikes were halted, and Yugoslav forces withdrew their military
forces from Kosovo by June 20, 1999.
Congress, while not authorizing directly, and in advance, this military action, introduced and
voted on several legislative measures related to deployment of U.S. military forces for combat or
peacekeeping in the Balkan region. The House adopted H.Con.Res. 42 on March 11, 1999, which
authorized the President to send troops as peacekeepers; the Senate passed a non-binding
resolution (S.Con.Res. 21) on March 23, 1999, that expressed the sense of Congress that the
President was authorized to conduct military air operations in cooperation with NATO allies
against Yugoslavia. However, the House later defeated the Senate resolution, on April 28, 1999.
Other House or Senate votes sent conflicting signals in addressing funding related to troop
deployments in the region, declaration of war issues, and executive and congressional roles in
sending U.S. military forces abroad. The following legislation is representative of what was
introduced and voted on in the 106th Congress.
Related CRS products
CRS Insight IN11180, Kosovo’s Election: Early Results May Signal Major Changes, by Sarah E.
Garding.
[Archived] CRS Report R44979, Kosovo: Background and U.S. Relations, by Vincent L. Morelli.
[Archived] CRS Report R44955, Serbia: Background and U.S. Relations, by Vincent L. Morelli
and Sarah E. Garding.
[Archived] CRS Report RL31053, Kosovo and U.S. Policy: Background to Independence, by
Julie Kim and Steven Woehrel.
[Archived] CRS Report RL30127, Kosovo Conflict Chronology: September 1998-March 1999, by
Julie Kim.
Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
106th
H.Res. 103
Provides for consideration of the concurrent
Measure agreed to in
resolution, H.Con.Res. 42, regarding the use of
House
U.S. Armed Forces as part of a NATO
March 11, 1999
peacekeeping operation implementing a Kosovo
218-201
peace agreement. Motion to order the previous
(vote #46)
question (thus ending debate and the possibility of
amendment) on adoption of H.Res. 103.
Congressional Research Service

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U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
H.Con.Res. 42
A concurrent resolution authorizing the President
Measure agreed to in
Peacekeeping
to deploy U.S. Armed Forces personnel to Kosovo
House
Operations in
as part of a NATO peacekeeping operation
March 11, 1999
Kosovo Resolution
implementing a Kosovo peace agreement, subject
219-191
to certain limitations.
(vote #49)
H.Amdt. 24 to
Gejdenson amendment to add language concerning
Agreed to as
H.Con.Res. 42
authorization and deployment of U.S. Armed
amended by voice
Forces to Kosovo including a declaration of policy
vote
relating to an interim agreement to end the conflict
and limit U.S. Armed Forces personnel that may be
part of a NATO peacekeeping operation to not
more than 15 percent.
H.Amdt. 25 to
Fowler amendment to Gejdenson amendment to
Rejected in House
H.Con.Res. 42
limit the deployment of U.S. Armed Forces to
March 11, 1999
Kosovo and to not authorize the President to
178-237
deploy ground forces as part of a NATO
(vote #48)
peacekeeping operation.
H.Amdt. 26 to
Gilman amendment to Gejdenson amendment to
Agreed to by voice
H.Con.Res. 42
authorize deployment of U.S. Armed Forces to
vote.
Kosovo and require the President to submit
reports to Congress including a statement outlining
the national interest at risk; specifying resources
required; percentage of U.S. participation; and exit
strategy before ordering any deployments.
106th
S. 544
An original bil making emergency supplemental
Cloture motion
Emergency
appropriations and rescissions for recovery from
rejected in Senate
Supplemental
natural disasters, and foreign assistance, for the
March 23, 1999
Appropriations Act
fiscal year ending September 30, 1999, and for
55-44
for Fiscal Year 1999
other purposes. March 23, 1999: Cloture motion
(vote #55)
(thus limiting debate) on the Lott amendment
Measure passed in
(S.Amdt. 124) to the Hutchison amendment
Senate
(S.Amdt. 81) to prohibit the use of funds for
March 23, 1999
military operations in Yugoslavia unless Congress
(voice vote)
enacts specific authorizations in law for the
conduct of those operations.
S.Con.Res. 21
A concurrent resolution authorizing the President
Measure agreed to in
of the United States to conduct military air
Senate
operations and missile strikes against Yugoslavia.
March 23, 1999
58-41
(vote #57)
Measure rejected in
House
April 28, 1999
213-213
(vote #103)
H.Res. 130
Expresses the support of the House of
Measure agreed to in

Representatives for the members of the U.S.
House
Armed Forces who are engaged in military
March 24, 1999
operations against Yugoslavia.
424-1
(vote #71)
106th
H.R. 1141
A bil making emergency supplemental
Measure passed in

(P.L. 106-31)
appropriations for the fiscal year ending September
House
1999 Emergency
30, 1999, and for other purposes—provides $15
March 24, 1999
bil ion for Central American humanitarian relief, aid
Congressional Research Service

19

U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
Supplemental
to Jordan, U.S. farmer assistance, and U.S. military
220-211
Appropriations Act
and humanitarian operations in the Balkans.
(vote #70)
Measure passed in
Senate, as amended,
in lieu of S. 544
March 24, 1999
(voice vote)
House adopted
conference report
May 18, 1999
269-158
(vote #133)
Senate adopted
conference report
May 20, 1999
64-36
(vote #136)
H.Res. 151
Provides for consideration of the bil (H.R. 1569)
Measure agreed to in
to prohibit the use of funds appropriated to the
House
Department of Defense from being used for the
April 28, 1999
deployment of ground elements of the U.S. Armed
213-210
Forces in Yugoslavia unless that deployment is
(vote #99)
specifically authorized by law; for consideration of
the concurrent resolution (H.Con.Res. 82)
directing the President, pursuant to §5(c) of the
War Powers Resolution, to remove U.S. Armed
Forces from their positions in connection with the
present operations against Yugoslavia; for
consideration of the joint resolution (H.J.Res. 44)
declaring a state of war between the United States
and the Government of Yugoslavia; and for
consideration of the concurrent resolution
(S.Con.Res. 21) authorizing the President of the
United States to conduct military air operations
and missile strikes against Yugoslavia.
H.R. 1569
A bil to prohibit the use of funds appropriated to
Measure passed in

Military Operations
the Department of Defense from being used for
House
in the Federal
the deployment of ground elements of the U.S.
April 28, 1999
Republic of
Armed Forces in Yugoslavia unless that deployment 249-180
Yugoslavia Limitation
is specifically authorized by law.
(vote #100)
Act of 1999

H.Con.Res. 82
A concurrent resolution directing the President,
Measure rejected in

pursuant to §5(c) of the War Powers Resolution,
House
to remove U.S. Armed Forces from their positions
April 28, 1999
in connection with the present operations against
139-290
Yugoslavia.
(vote #101)
H.J.Res. 44
A joint resolution declaring a state of war between
Measure rejected in
the United States and the government of
House
Yugoslavia.
April 28, 1999
2-427
(vote #102)
S.J.Res. 20
A joint resolution authorizing the President to use
Motion to table

all necessary force and other means, in concert
agreed to in Senate
with the U.S. allies, to accomplish U.S. and NATO
May 4, 1999
objectives in Yugoslavia.
Congressional Research Service

20

U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
78-22
(vote #98)
H.Res. 159
“Provides for consideration of the bil (H.R. 1664) Measure agreed to in

making emergency supplemental appropriations for
House
military operations, refugee relief, and humanitarian May 6, 1999
assistance relating to the conflict in Kosovo .. for
253-171
the fiscal year ending September 30, 1999, and for
(vote #116)
other purposes.”
H.R. 1664
“A bil (as introduced) making emergency
Measure passed

(P.L. 106-51)
supplemental appropriations for military
House as amended
Kosovo Emergency
operations, refugee relief, and humanitarian
May 6, 1999
Supplemental
assistance relating to the conflict in Kosovo .. for
311-105
Appropriations bil
the fiscal year ending September 30, 1999, and for
(vote #120)
other purposes—provided $13.1 bil ion relating to
Kosovo operations and other purposes (Kosovo-
related supplemental funding was ultimately
removed from this legislation and included in H.R.
1141).”
H.Amdt. 68 to
Obey amendment to provide the President’s
Rejected in House

H.R. 1664
funding request for military operations in Kosovo,
May 6, 1999
etc.
164-260
(vote #118)
106th
H.Amdt. 76 to
Istook amendment to prohibit funding for the
Rejected in House

H.R. 1664
implementation of any plan to invade Yugoslavia
May 6, 1999
with ground forces, except in time of war.
117-301
(vote #119)
S. 1059
To authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2000 for Measure passed in
(P.L. 106-65)
military activities of the Department of Defense,
Senate as amended
National Defense
for military construction, and for defense activities
May 27, 1999
Authorization Act for of the Department of Energy, to prescribe
92-3
Fiscal Year 2000
personnel strengths for such fiscal year for the
(vote #154)
Armed Forces, and for other purposes.
Measure passed in
House, in lieu of H.R.
1401
June 14, 1999
(voice vote)
House adopted
conference report
September 15, 1999
375-45
(vote #424)
Senate adopted
conference report
September 22, 1999
(voice vote)
S.Amdt. 383 to
Specter amendment to direct the President,
Motion to table

S. 1059
pursuant to the U.S. Constitution and the War
agreed to in Senate
Powers Resolution, to seek approval from
May 25, 1999
Congress prior to the introduction of ground
52-48
troops from the U.S. Armed Forces in connection
(vote #145)
with the present operations against Yugoslavia or
funding for that operation wil not be authorized.
S.Amdt. 406 to
B. Smith amendment to prohibit, effective October
Motion to table

1, 1999, the use of funds for military operations in
agreed to in Senate
Congressional Research Service

21

U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
S. 1059
Yugoslavia unless Congress enacts specific
May 26, 1999
authorization in law for the conduct of those
77-21
operations.
(vote #151)
106th
H.R. 1401
“A bil to authorize appropriations for fiscal years
Measure passed in

National Defense
2000 and 2001 for military activities of the
House
Authorization Act for Department of Defense .. and for other purposes.” June 10, 1999
Fiscal Year 2000
365-58
(vote #191)
H.Amdt. 160 to
Souder amendment to prohibit any FY2000 funding
Rejected in House
H.R. 1401
for military operations in Yugoslavia.
June 10, 1999
97-328
(vote #187)
H.Amdt. 161 to
Skelton amendment to delete language which
Agreed to in House

H.R. 1401
prohibits any funding for combat or peacekeeping
June 10, 1999
operations in Yugoslavia after September 30, 1999;
270-155
retains language which requires the President to
(vote #189)
request supplemental appropriations in order to
conduct combat or peacekeeping operations in
Yugoslavia.
Terrorist Attack against the United States
Legislation (2001-Present)
On September 11, 2001, terrorists attacked the United States with a coordinated series of aircraft
hijackings and suicide crashes into populated buildings. Two airplanes crashed into the twin
towers of the World Trade Center in New York City, causing their complete destruction. Another
airplane crashed into the Pentagon near Washington, DC, and a fourth airplane crashed in
southwestern Pennsylvania (near Shanksville) after passengers attempted to take control of the
aircraft in order to prevent it from crashing into an important symbol of democracy and freedom,
perhaps in the Washington, DC, area. Over 3,000 people lost their lives in these terrorist attacks.
Consequently, on September 14, 2001, Congress passed a joint resolution, which “authorizes the
President to use all necessary and appropriate force against those nations, organizations, or
persons he determines planned, authorized, committed, or aided the terrorist attacks that occurred
on September 11, 2001, or harbored such organizations or persons, in order to prevent any future
acts of international terrorism against the United States by such nations, organizations, or
persons.” It further states that the act is intended to constitute specific statutory authorization
within the meaning of the War Powers Resolution. President George W. Bush signed the joint
resolution into law on September 18, 2001. On October 9, 2001, President Bush reported in a
letter to Congress that U.S. Armed Forces had begun combat action in Afghanistan against the Al
Qaeda terrorists and their Taliban supporters starting at 12:30 p.m. (EDT) on October 7, 2001.
Related CRS products
CRS Report R43983, 2001 Authorization for Use of Military Force: Issues Concerning Its
Continued Application, by Matthew C. Weed.
Congressional Research Service

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U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
107th
H.J.Res. 64
Joint resolution to authorize the use of United
Measure
Authorization for Use of Military
States Armed Forces against those responsible
passed in
Force
for the recent (September 11, 2001) attacks
House
launched against the United States.
September
14, 2001
420-1
(vote #342),
House tabled,
September
14, 2001
H.R. 3338
Department of Defense and Emergency
Measure
(P.L. 107-117)
Supplemental Appropriations for Recovery
passed in
from and Response to Terrorist Attacks on
House
Department of Defense and
the United States Act, 2002—Appropriates
November
Emergency Supplemental
funds for FY 2002 for emergency expenses to
28, 2001
Appropriations for Recovery
respond to the September 11, 2001, terrorist
from and Response to Terrorist
406-20
attacks on the United States.
Attacks on the United States
(vote #458),
Act, 2002
December 7,

2001
passed/agreed
in Senate by
voice vote
December
20, 2001
Conference
report agreed
to in House
408-6 (Vote
# 510) and
agreed to the
Senate 94-4
(vote # 380)
S.J.Res. 23
Joint resolution to authorize the use of U.S.
Measure
(P.L. 107-40)
Armed Forces against those responsible for
passed in
the recent (September 11, 2001) attacks
Senate
launched against the United States.
September
14, 2001
98-0
(vote #281),
House passed
without
objection,
September
14, 2001
115th
S.Amdt. 871 to S.Amdt.
Paul amendment would repeal the
Motion to
1003 to H.R. 2810
Authorization for the Use of Military Force
table S.Amdt.

Against Iraq Resolution of 2002 (P.L. 107-
871 agreed to
243).
in Senate
61-36
September
13, 2017
(vote #195)
Congressional Research Service

23

U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
118th
S.316
A bil to repeal the authorizations for Use of
Passed Senate
Military Force against Iraq in P.L. 102-1 and
without
the Use of Military Force Against Iraq
amendment
Resolution of 2002 in P.L.107–243.
March 29,
2023
66 - 30
(vote # 77)
Use of Force against Iraq (2002-2003)
On October 10, 2002, after several days of debate, the House passed H.J.Res. 114, which
authorized the use of military force against Iraq. The Senate had considered its own measure,
S.J.Res. 45, beginning on October 3, but indefinitely postponed it, and instead passed H.J.Res.
114 on October 11, 2002. As enacted into law, the joint resolution provides authorization for the
use of military force against Iraq and expresses support for the President’s efforts to
(1) strictly enforce through the United Nations Security Council all relevant Security Council
resolutions regarding Iraq; and
(2) obtain prompt and decisive action by the Security Council to ensure that Iraq abandons its
strategy of delay, evasion, and noncompliance and promptly and strictly complies with all
relevant Security Council resolutions.
In addition, it authorizes the President to use the U.S. Armed Forces to (1) defend U.S. national
security against the continuing threat posed by Iraq; and (2) enforce all relevant Security Council
resolutions regarding Iraq. It directs the President, prior to or as soon as possible (but no later
than 48 hours) after exercising such authority, to make available to the Speaker of the House of
Representatives and the President pro tempore of the Senate his determination that
(1) reliance on further diplomatic or peaceful means alone will not achieve the above
purposes; and
(2) acting pursuant to this joint resolution is consistent with the United States and other
countries continuing to take necessary actions against international terrorists and terrorist
organizations, including those who planned, authorized, committed, or aided the terrorist
attacks of September 11, 2001.
It declares that this section is intended to constitute specific statutory authorization for use of the
Armed Forces, consistent with the requirements of the War Powers Resolution. Finally, it requires
the President to report to Congress at least every 60 days on matters relevant to this resolution.
The war with Iraq (Operation Iraqi Freedom) began on March 19, 2003, with an aerial attack
against a location where Iraqi President Saddam Hussein was suspected to be meeting with top
Iraqi officials. U.S. and British troops entered Iraq on March 20, 2003, and while the invasion
encountered resistance, particularly in its early stages, U.S. forces had largely gained control of
Baghdad by April 9, 2003. The northern cities of Kirkuk and Mosul fell shortly afterward, and on
April 14, 2003, U.S. troops entered Tikrit, Saddam’s birthplace and the last major population
center outside coalition control. On April 15, 2003, President George W. Bush declared that “the
regime of Saddam Hussein is no more.”
Congressional Research Service

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U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
107th
H.J.Res. 114 (P.L.
Joint resolution to authorize the use of United Measure passed House in
107-243)
States Armed Forces against Iraq.
October 10, 2002
296-133
(vote #455)
Measure passed Senate
October 11, 2002
77-23
(vote #237)
H.Amdt. 608 to
B. Lee amendment that would urge the
Rejected in House
H.J.Res. 114
President to work through the United
October 10, 2002
Nations to ensure that Iraq is not developing
72-355
weapons of mass destruction, and to urge the
(vote #452)
use of peaceful means to resolve the issue,
including the resumption of weapons
inspections.
107th
H.Amdt. 609 to
Spratt amendment to authorize the U.S.
Rejected in House
H.J.Res. 114
military to support any new U.N. Security
October 10, 2002
Council resolution that orders the
155-270
elimination, by force if required, of Iraq’s
(vote #453)
weapons of mass destruction, long-range
missiles, and the means of producing such
weapons. The President would be required to
seek congressional authority before using
military force against Iraq without such a U.N.
resolution.

Kucinich motion to recommit the bil to the
Rejected in House
House International Relations Committee
October 10, 2002
with instructions that it be reported back with 101-325
language that would require the President,
(vote #454)
prior to the use of force, to report to
Congress on the effect of war with Iraq,
including estimates of its impact on the U.S.
economy, Iraqi citizens, and international
stability.
S.J.Res. 45
Joint resolution to authorize the use of United Indefinitely postponed by
States Armed Forces against Iraq.
Senate
October 11, 2002
(unanimous consent)

McCain motion to table the Graham
Agreed to in Senate
amendment (S.Amdt. 4857) to the
October 9, 2002
Lieberman substitute amendment (S.Amdt.
88-10
4856). The Graham amendment would
(vote #231)
authorize the use of force against Iraq and five
terrorist organizations. It would require the
Administration to report to Congress that
diplomatic options have been exhausted no
later than 48 hours after action has begun.
The President would be required to report to
Congress at least every 60 days.
107th
S.Amdt. 4869 to
Byrd amendment to the Lieberman substitute
Rejected in Senate
S.J.Res. 45
amendment (S.Amdt. 4856). The Byrd
October 10, 2002
amendment would provide for the
31-66
termination of congressional authorization of
(vote #232)
the use of force 12 months after the
resolution’s enactment, unless the President
Congressional Research Service

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U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
certifies that an extension is necessary and
Congress does not pass a joint resolution
disapproving of the extension.

Motion to invoke cloture (thus limiting
Agreed to in Senate
debate) on the Lieberman substitute
October 10, 2002
amendment (S.Amdt. 4856) that would
75-25
authorize the use of force against Iraq and
(vote #233)
require the Administration to report to
Congress that diplomatic options have been
exhausted no later than 48 hours after
military action has begun. The President also
would be required to submit a progress
report to Congress at least every 60 days.
S.Amdt. 4868 to
Byrd amendment to the Lieberman substitute
Rejected in Senate
S.J.Res. 45
amendment (S.Amdt. 4856). The Byrd
October 10, 2002
amendment would clarify that any
14-86
authorization of the use of force against Iraq
(vote #234)
would not alter the constitutional authority of
Congress to declare war. It also would clarify
that no additional authority not directly
related to a clear threat of imminent, sudden,
and direct attack on the United States be
granted to the President unless Congress
authorizes it.
107th
S.Amdt. 4862 to
Levin amendment to the Lieberman substitute
Rejected in Senate
S.J.Res. 45
amendment (S.Amdt. 4856). The Levin
October 10, 2002
amendment would authorize the use of force
24-75
against Iraq if it failed to comply with a new
(vote #235)
U.N. resolution that demanded unrestricted
access for U.N. weapons inspectors in Iraq
and authorized the use of military force by
U.N. members to enforce the resolution.
Congress could return to session at any time
to promptly consider proposals related to
Iraq if the U.N. failed to adopt such a
resolution.
S.Amdt. 4865 to
Durbin amendment to the Lieberman
Rejected in Senate
S.J.Res. 45
substitute amendment (S.Amdt. 4856). The
October 10, 2002
Durbin amendment would authorize the use
30-70
of military force to cover an “imminent
(vote #236)
threat” by Iraq’s weapons of mass destruction,
rather than a “continuing threat” by Iraq.
108th
S.Res. 95
A resolution commending the President and
Measure agreed to in
the Armed Forces of the United States of
Senate
America in the conflict against Iraq.
March 20, 2003
99-0
(vote #61)
H.Con.Res. 104
A concurrent resolution expressing the
Measure agreed to in
support and appreciation of the nation for the
House
President and the members of the Armed
March 21, 2003
Forces who are participating in Operation
392-11
Iraqi Freedom.
(vote #83)
Congressional Research Service

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U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
115th
S.Amdt. 871 to
Paul amendment would repeal the
Motion to table S.Amdt.
S.Amdt. 1003 to
Authorization for Use of Military Force
871 agreed to in Senate
H.R. 2810
Against Iraq of 2002 (P.L. 107-243).3
61-36
National Defense
Sept. 13, 2017
Authorization Act,
FY 2018
(vote #195)
116th
H.R.2500
§1270W “The Authorization for Use of
Passed in House
National Defense
Military Force Against Iraq Resolution of 2002
July 12, 2019
Authorization Act
(P.L. 107-243) is repealed.”
220 - 197
for Fiscal Year 2020
(vote #473)
H.Amdt.555
An amendment numbered 424 printed in Part
On agreeing to the Lee
to H.R.2500
B of House Report 116-143 to repeal the
(CA) amendment (A049),

Authorization for Use of Military Force
agreed to by House
Against Iraq Resolution of 2002 (P.L. 107-
July 12, 2019
243).
242 - 180
(vote #464)
War in Iraq and Afghanistan (2001-present)
U.S. military operations against Al Qaeda and Taliban forces in Afghanistan proceeded pursuant
to the 2001 Authorization for Use of Military Force from October 2001 onward. U.S. military
operations in Iraq proceeded pursuant to the 2002 Authorization for Use of Military Force in Iraq
from March 2003 onward. On March 25, 2003, President George W. Bush requested $74.8 billion
in the FY2003 Emergency Supplemental for the ongoing military operations in Iraq, postwar
occupation, reconstruction and relief in Iraq, and international assistance to countries contributing
to the war in Iraq or the global war on terrorism. The cost of the continued U.S. presence in
Afghanistan and additional funds for homeland security were also included. H.R. 1559, enacted
into law as P.L. 108-11 on April 16, 2003, provided $78.49 billion in funding for these purposes.
The Senate passed H.R. 1559 in lieu of its version, S. 762, by unanimous consent.
On September 17, 2003, President Bush formally requested an additional $87 billion for the
ongoing military operations and for reconstruction assistance in Iraq, Afghanistan, and elsewhere.
H.R. 3289 (FY2004 supplemental appropriations for Iraq, Afghanistan, and the global war on
terrorism) was enacted into law as P.L. 108-106 on November 6, 2003, providing $87.5 billion in
funding. The House approved the conference agreement by a roll call vote on October 31, 2003,
and the Senate approved the conference agreement by voice vote on November 3, 2003. Earlier,
on October 17, 2003, the Senate had approved its own version of the measure, S. 1689, but
vitiated its passage and returned the bill to the Senate Calendar.
Related CRS products
CRS In Focus IF10404, Iraq, by Christopher M. Blanchard.
CRS Report R45025, Iraq: Background and U.S. Policy, by Christopher M. Blanchard.

3 "$692.1 Billion Defense Authorization Increases ‘End Strength,’ Adds Warships," CQ Almanac 2017, 73rd ed.,
Washington, DC: 2018, at http://library.cqpress.com/cqalmanac/cqal17-1942-108525-2911672. See text: “One of the
most contentious debates during the bill's consideration was over Paul's amendment that would have phased out the
2001 and 2002 Authorizations for the Use of Military Force. While the Senate voted, 61-36, to table (or kill) Paul's
amendment, the Senate's vote was its first on an AUMF in 15 years.”
Congressional Research Service

27

U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

CRS Report R45818, Afghanistan: Background and U.S. Policy, by Clayton Thomas.
CRS In Focus IF10604, Terrorist Groups in Afghanistan, by Clayton Thomas.
[Archived] CRS Report R41070, Al Qaeda and Affiliates: Historical Perspective, Global
Presence, and Implications for U.S. Policy, coordinated by John W. Rollins
Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
108th
H.R. 1559
A bil making emergency wartime
Measure passed in
(P.L. 108-11)
supplemental appropriations for the fiscal
House
Emergency Wartime
year ending September 30, 2003, and for
April 3, 2003
Supplemental
other purposes.
414-12
Appropriations Act,
(vote #108)
2003
Measure passed in
Senate in lieu of S. 762
April 7, 2003
(unanimous consent)
House adopted
conference report April
12, 2003
(voice vote)
Senate adopted
conference report April
12, 2003
(unanimous consent)
S. 762
An original bil making supplemental
Measure passed in
Supplemental
appropriations to support Department of
Senate
Appropriations Act to
Defense operations in Iraq, Department
April 3, 2003
Support Department of
of Homeland Security, and related efforts
93-0
Defense Operations in
for the fiscal year ending September 30,
(vote #125)
Iraq for Fiscal Year 2003 2003, and for other purposes.

Cochran motion to table the Hol ings
Motion agreed to in
amendment (S.Amdt. 479) that would
Senate
express the sense of the Senate that the
April 3, 2003
President should submit a report to the
79-18
Senate Finance Committee on a plan to
(vote #121)
raise revenues to offset the funds in the
bil spent on the war with Iraq.
S.Amdt. 455 to S.
Kohl amendment to appropriate $600
Agreed to in Senate

762
mil ion for food assistance to the people
April 3, 2003
of Iraq.
67-26
(vote #124)
H.R. 3289
A bil making emergency supplemental
Measure passed in

(P.L. 108-106)
appropriations for defense and for the
House
Emergency
reconstruction of Iraq and Afghanistan
October 17, 2003
Supplemental
for the fiscal year ending September 30,
303-125
Appropriations Act for
2004, and for other purposes.
(vote #562)
Defense and for the
Measure passed in
Reconstruction of Iraq
Senate with an
and Afghanistan, 2004
amendment
October 17, 2003
(unanimous consent)
House adopted
conference report
October 31, 2003
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U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
298-121
(vote #601)
Senate adopted
conference report
November 3, 2003
(voice vote)
H.Amdt. 409 to H.R.
Obey amendment to provide funds for
Rejected in Committee

3289
quality of life enhancements for U.S.
of the Whole
servicemembers.
October 16, 2003
200-226
(vote #546)
108th
H.Amdt. 407 to H.R.
Obey amendment to transfer $3.6 bil ion
Rejected in Committee
3289
in Iraq reconstruction funds for quality of
of the Whole
life enhancements for U.S.
October 16, 2003
servicemembers.
209-216
(vote #547)
H.Amdt. 410 to H.R.
Waxman amendment to reduce Iraqi
Rejected in Committee
3289
funding in the bil for the importation into of the Whole
Iraq of petroleum products by $250
October 16, 2003
mil ion.
197-224
(vote #548)
H.Amdt. 411 to H.R.
Kirk amendment to strike the provision
Agreed to in Committee
3289
of the bil that would allow
of the Whole
noncompetitive contracts to be reported
October 16, 2003
to Congress seven days after the contract 405-20
has been awarded in certain
(vote #549)
circumstances; executive agencies would
be required to inform Congress of “no-
bid” contracts before they are offered.
H.Amdt. 415 to H.R.
Holt amendment to strike $900 mil ion
Rejected in Committee
3289
from the bil for importing petroleum
of the Whole
products into Iraq.
October 16, 2003
169-256
(vote #551)
H.Amdt. 421 to H.R.
Sanchez amendment to bar the Secretary
Rejected in Committee
3289
of Defense from carrying out military
of the Whole
construction projects in excess of $1.5
October 16, 2003
mil ion outside Iraq without prior
128-295
notification to Congress.
(vote #552)
H.Amdt. 422 to H.R.
Kind amendment to reduce
Rejected in Committee
3289
reconstruction funds for Iraq in the bil by of the Whole
50%.
October 17, 2003
156-267
(vote #553)
H.Amdt. 423 to H.R.
Stupak amendment to increase military
Rejected in Committee
3289
pay in the bil by $265 mil ion to cover
of the Whole
$1,500 bonuses for each servicemember
October 17, 2003
in Iraq and Afghanistan in FY2004.
213-213
(vote #554)
H.Amdt. 431 to H.R.
Sherman amendment to require
Agreed to in Committee
3289
competitive bidding procedures for all
of the Whole
October 17, 2003
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U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
government contracts relating to Iraq’s
248-179
oil infrastructure.
(vote #557)

H.R. 3289
Obey motion to instruct House
Motion agreed to in
conferees to insist on provisions in the
House
Senate bil that would structure $10
October 21, 2003
bil ion of the $20.3 bil ion in
277-139
reconstruction aid to Iraq in the form of
(vote #567)
loans subject to certain conditions (and
for other purposes).

Obey motion to recommit the
Motion rejected in the
conference report to the conference
House
committee with instructions that it be
October 31, 2003
reported back to the House with
198-221
provisions that would put half the
(vote #600)
reconstruction aid to Iraq in the form of
loans (and for other purposes).
108th
S. 1689
An original bil making emergency
Measure passed in
Emergency
supplemental appropriations for Iraq and
Senate
Supplemental
Afghanistan security and reconstruction
October 17, 2003
Appropriations for Iraq
for the fiscal year ending September 30,
87-12
and Afghanistan Security 2004, and for other purposes.
(vote #400)
and Reconstruction Act,
2004
S.Amdt. 1794 to
Byrd amendment to eliminate $15.2
Rejected in Senate

S. 1689
bil ion of the $20.3 bil ion allocated for
October 1, 2003
Iraqi reconstruction efforts. The
38-59
remaining $5.1 bil ion would be used for
(vote #371)
security, including public safety
requirement, national security, and justice
purposes.
S.Amdt. 1795 to
McConnell amendment to express the
Agreed to in Senate

S. 1689
sense of the Senate thanking U.S. troops
October 2, 2003
serving in Iraq and Afghanistan and
98-1
extending condolences to the families of
(vote #372)
those who have been kil ed or injured.

S. 1689
Stevens motion to table the Biden
Motion agreed to in
amendment (S.Amdt. 1796) that would
Senate
offset Iraqi reconstruction costs by
October 2, 2003
eliminating income tax cuts enacted in
57-42
2001 for the top 1% of earners.
(vote #373)

Stevens motion to table the Leahy
Motion agreed to in
amendment (S.Amdt. 1803) that would
Senate
remove the Coalition Provisional
October 2, 2003
Authority in Iraq from Defense
56-42
Department control and place it under
(vote #374)
the jurisdiction of the State Department
within 60 days after the bil ’s enactment.

Stevens motion to table the Dodd
Motion agreed to in
amendment (S.Amdt. 1817) that would
Senate
spend an additional $322 mil ion on
October 2, 2003
battlefield clearance and safety equipment 49-37
for U.S. troops in Iraq. The money would
(vote #376)
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30

U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
be offset by a reduction in Iraqi
reconstruction funds.
108th

Division I of the Bingaman amendment
Rejected in Senate
(S.Amdt. 1830) would authorize the
October 14, 2003
Defense Department to award the Iraqi
47-48
Liberation Medal to any person who
(vote #378)
served in any capacity in the Armed
Forces in Southwest Asia in connection
with “Operation Iraqi Freedom.”

Stevens motion to table the Stabenow
Motion agreed to in
amendment (S.Amdt. 1823) that would
Senate
reduce the amount provided for Iraqi
October 14, 2003
reconstruction by $5.03 bil ion and
59-35
redirect that funding for domestic
(vote #379)
programs. Also would express the sense
of the Senate that Congress should
consider an additional $5.03 bil ion in
funding for Iraqi reconstruction during
the fiscal 2005 budget and appropriations
process.

Stevens motion to table the Dorgan
Motion agreed to in
amendment (S.Amdt. 1826) that would
Senate
strike $20.3 bil ion in appropriations for
October 14, 2003
Iraqi reconstruction funds and require
57-39
the President to direct the head of the
(vote #380)
Coalition Provisional Authority in Iraq to
establish an Iraq Reconstruction Finance
Authority to col ateralize “the revenue
from future sales of oil extracted in Iraq.”

Stevens motion to table the Reed
Motion rejected in
amendment (S.Amdt. 1834) that would
Senate
authorize an additional 10,000 in Army
October 14, 2003
personnel. Additional personnel would be 45-52
required to be trained, incorporated into
(vote #382)
an appropriate force structure, and used
for constabulary duty such as military
police and light infantry. It would also
require that $409 mil ion be made
available from the Iraqi Freedom Fund to
fund the additional personnel.

S.Amdt. 1846 to
Byrd amendment to require the Coalition Agreed to in Senate
S. 1689
Provisional Authority (CPA) to report to
October 15, 2003
Congress quarterly on the costs related
97-0
to reconstruction activities and the
(vote #383)
revenue provided by foreign nations and
international organizations. It would also
require the Comptrol er General to
conduct an ongoing audit of the CPA to
evaluate the reconstruction and security
activities in Iraq. (Title II of H.R. 3289
[P.L. 108-106] established the CPA
Office of Inspector General).
108th
S.Amdt. 1806 to
Graham amendment to express the sense Agreed to in Senate
S. 1689
of Congress that the removal of the
October 15, 2003
government of Iraq under Saddam
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31

U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
Hussein has enhanced the security of
95-2
Israel and other U.S. allies. It was not
(vote #384)
included in the final measure, H.R. 3289.

S. 1689
Stevens motion to table the Byrd
Motion agreed to in
amendment (S.Amdt. 1818) that would
Senate
appropriate $5.1 bil ion in security
October 16, 2003
funding immediately and up to $5 bil ion
57-42
for Iraqi reconstruction funding before
(vote #385)
April 1. The remaining $10.2 bil ion in
reconstruction funding could be released
after April 1 as part of a separate
appropriations bil —but only if the United
Nations had adopted a new resolution
authorizing a multinational military force
under U.S. leadership in Iraq, with U.N.
leadership in political and economic
reconstruction. The President would also
be required to provide a detailed
reconstruction plan that includes an
estimated schedule for the transfer of
sovereignty to the Iraqi people and the
withdrawal of troops.

Stevens motion to table the Lautenberg
Motion agreed to in
amendment (S.Amdt. 1868) that would
Senate
prohibit the use of Iraqi reconstruction
October 16, 2003
funds for any contact or financial
65-34
agreement with an entity that pays
(vote #386)
deferred compensation to the President,
Vice President, or a Cabinet-level official,
or any entity in which the President, Vice
President, or Cabinet-level official holds
options to purchase more than 1,000
shares of stock.

S.Amdt. 1874 to
McConnell amendment to express the
Agreed to in Senate
S. 1689
sense of the Senate that the Secretary of
October 16, 2003
Defense should issue necessary
97-1
regulations to implement and begin
(vote #387)
awarding the Global War on Terrorism
Medal to members of the Armed Forces
serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom,
Operation Enduring Freedom, and
Operation Noble Eagle.

S.Amdt. 1876 to
Nickles amendment to express the sense
Agreed to in Senate
S. 1689
of the Senate that all countries that hold
October 16, 2003
debt from loans for the former Iraqi
98-0
regime of Saddam Hussein should be
(vote #388)
urged to forgive their debt. (§2215(b) of
H.R. 3289 [P.L. 108-106] includes
reporting requirements on Iraqi debt).
108th
S.Amdt. 1871 to
Bayh amendment to provide a total of
Agreed to in Senate
S. 1689
$10.3 bil ion as a grant to rebuild Iraq,
October 16, 2003
including $5.1 bil ion for security and $5.2 51-47
bil ion for reconstruction costs. The
(vote #389)
remaining $10 bil ion would be
structured as a loan to be converted to a
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32

U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
grant if 90% of all bilateral debt incurred
by the former Iraqi regime of Saddam
Hussein has been forgiven by other
countries (and for other related
purposes).
Conferees did not include the measure in
the conference report on H.R. 3289
(P.L. 108-106).

S.Amdt. 1837 to
Durbin amendment to require that a
Agreed to in Senate
S. 1689
federal employee who takes leave
October 17, 2003
without pay in order to perform certain
96-3
service as a member of the uniformed
(vote #390)
service or the National Guard, be
reimbursed for the difference between
their salary and the pay and allowances
they receive while on duty.

S. 1689
Stevens motion to table the Daschle
Motion agreed to in
amendment (S.Amdt. 1854) that would
Senate
require the President to certify that
October 17, 2003
future appropriations which exceed the
55-44
amount in the bil are equal to or
(vote #391)
exceeded by contributions by the
international community. The
requirement could be waived if the
President provides a report to Congress
that determines the funding serves U.S.
national security interests.

Stevens motion to table the Landrieu
Motion agreed to in
amendment (S.Amdt. 1859) that would
Senate
require the President to direct the head
October 17, 2003
of the Coalition Provisional Authority in
52-47
Iraq to establish an Iraq Reconstruction
(vote #392)
Finance Authority. The Authority would
be required to obtain financing for the
reconstruction of Iraq’s infrastructure
through the issuance of securities and
loans and by col ateralizing future
revenue from its oil reserves.

S.Amdt. 1843
Boxer amendment to reimburse
Agreed to in Senate
to S. 1689
servicemembers who paid for meals
October 17, 2003
while hospitalized as a result of injuries
99-0
or il ness while in combat or training
(vote #393)
since September 11, 2001.

S. 1689
Stevens motion to table the Corzine
Motion agreed to in
amendment (S.Amdt. 1882) that would
Senate
establish a 12-member independent,
October 17, 2003
bipartisan commission to examine and
67-32
report on the role of policymakers in the
(vote #395)
development and use of intelligence
related to Iraq and Operation Iraqi
Freedom. The amendment would
authorize $5 mil ion for the commission.
108th

Stevens motion to table the Byrd
Motion agreed to in
amendment (S.Amdt. 1819) that would
Senate
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U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
limit the use of reconstruction funds for
October 17, 2003
certain programs and projects, reduce
51-47
reconstruction funding by $1.65 bil ion,
(vote #396)
and reallocate the funds to other
purposes, such as destroying
conventional weapons in Iraq and
accelerating reconstruction in
Afghanistan.

Stevens motion to table the Byrd
Motion agreed to in
amendment (S.Amdt. 1886) that would
Senate
prohibit the use of funds in the bil for the October 17, 2003
involuntary deployment overseas for
82-15
Operation Iraqi Freedom of members of
(vote #397)
the National Guard and Reserves who
have been involuntarily deployed for six
months or more during the past six
years.

Stevens motion to table the Byrd
Motion agreed to in
amendment (S.Amdt. 1888) that would
Senate
strike a provision in the bil that al ows
October 17, 2003
the President to reallocate funds for the
49-46
reconstruction of Iraq and insert a
(vote #398)
provision that would require the
President to seek additional funding in
subsequent appropriations bil s.

Stevens motion to table the Brownback
Motion agreed to in
amendment (S.Amdt. 1885) that would
Senate
decrease the amount in the bil for Iraqi
October 17, 2003
reconstruction by $600 mil ion and
55-43
increase the amount available to the Iraqi
(vote #399)
Civil Defense Corps by $50 mil ion (and
for other purposes).

H.Res. 557
Commends the members of the U.S.
Agreed to in House
Armed Forces and Coalition forces for
March 17, 2004
liberating Iraq and expresses its gratitude
327-93
for their valiant service.
(vote #64)

H.Res. 627
Condemns abuse of persons in in U.S.
Agreed to in House
custody in Iraq and expresses
May 6, 2004
appreciation to the members of the U.S.
365-50
Armed Forces who have served, or are
(vote #150)
serving, in Operation Iraqi Freedom.

S. 2400
Authorizes the Secretary, during FY2005
Measure passed in
(P.L. 108-375)
through 2009, to increase as necessary by Senate
Ronald W. Reagan
up to 30,000 the end strength authorized
June 23, 2004
National Defense
for the Army to support the Army’s
97-0
Authorization Act for
operational mission in Iraq and
(vote #146)
Fiscal Year 2005.
Afghanistan and to achieve Army
transformational reorganization
objectives. Requires a fiscal year’s budget
to be amended to reflect any such
increase. Authorizes supplemental
appropriations of $25 bil ion for the
Department of Defense for FY2005, to
be available only for activities in support
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34

U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
of operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Allocates such funds among specified
military department and defense-wide
accounts. Allows such authorization only
to the extent that a budget request is
transmitted from the President to
Congress that includes a designation of
the requested amount as an emergency
and essential to support activities in such
countries. Provides certain transfer
authority limits. Directs the Secretary to
report monthly to the defense and
appropriations committees on the use of
such authorized funds.
108th
S.Amdt. 3260
Warner amendment to authorize
Agreed to in Senate
to S. 2400
appropriations for the Department of
June 2, 2004
Defense for FY2005, $25 bil ion, to be
95-0
available only for activities in support of
(vote #106)
operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.

S.Amdt. 3379
Biden amendment to provide funds for
Rejected by Senate
to S. 2400
the security and stabilization of Iraq by
June 17, 2004
suspending a portion of the reduction in
44-53
the highest income tax rate for individual
(vote #130)
taxpayers.

H.Res. 691
Expresses gratitude to the U.S. Armed
Measure agreed to in
Forces for their ongoing valiant service to House
their country; offers continued support
June 25, 2004
to the U.S. Armed Forces; and reaffirms
352-57
that the U.S. Armed Forces operating in
(vote #319)
Iraq after June 30, 2004, wil remain
under the ful authority and control of
their American commanders.

H.R. 4613
Appropriates additional funds, to be
Measure passed in
(P.L. 108-287)
designated for overseas contingency
House
Department of Defense
operations, to the Department of
June 25, 2004
Appropriations Act,
Defense for military personnel, operation
410-12
2005.
and maintenance, and procurement
(vote #418)
(including National Guard and reserve

equipment).
Measure passed Senate
Byrd amendment (S.Amdt. 3502)
July 22, 2004
included as §8135.
96-0
(vote #163)

S.Amdt. 3502 to H.R.
Byrd amendment to express the sense of
Agreed to in Senate
4613
the Senate that any request for funds for
June 24, 2004
a fiscal year for an ongoing military
89-9
operation overseas, including operations
(vote #147)
in Afghanistan and Iraq, should be
included in the annual budget of the
President; and that any funds provided
for such a military operation should be
provided in appropriations Acts for such
fiscal year through appropriations to
specific accounts set forth in such acts.
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U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes

H.R. 4200
Authorizes the Secretary of Defense,
Measure passed in
(P.L. 108-375)
during FY2005 through 2009, to increase,
House
Ronald W. Reagan
by up to 30,000 for the Army and 9,000
October 9, 2004
National Defense
for the Marine Corps, the end strength
359-14
Authorization Act for
authorized to support operational
(vote #528)
Fiscal Year 2005
missions in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Authorizes, during FY2005, the use of up
to $300 mil ion from the Department of
Senate agreed to
Defense O&M funds to provide funds for
conference report by
the Commanders’ Emergency Response
unanimous consent
Program for enabling military
October 9, 2004
commanders in Iraq to respond to urgent
humanitarian relief and reconstruction
requirements, and for a similar program
to assist the people of Afghanistan.
109th
H.R. 1268
Provides funds for ongoing military
Conference report
(P.L. 109-13)
operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.
adopted by House
Emergency
Expresses the sense of the Senate that (1) May 5, 2005
Supplemental
any request for funds for a fiscal year
368-58
Appropriations Act for
after 2006 for an ongoing military
(vote #161)
Defense, the Global
operation overseas, including those in

War on Terror, and
Afghanistan and Iraq, should be included
Tsunami Relief, 2005
in the annual budget of the President
Conference report
submitted to Congress; (2) the President
adopted by Senate
should submit to Congress an
May 10, 2005
amendment to the 2006 budget setting
100-0
forth detailed cost estimates for such
(vote #117)
operations; and (3) any funds for such
purposes should be provided in
appropriations Acts through
appropriations to specific accounts.
Requires additional information
concerning such operations, including
Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi
Freedom, to be included in reports
required under both the Emergency
Supplemental Appropriations Act for
Defense and for the Reconstruction of
Iraq and Afghanistan, 2004, and the
Department of Defense Appropriations
Act, 2005.
Includes Byrd amendment (S.Amdt.
464) as §1024, expressing sense of the
Senate.

S.Amdt. 464 to H.R.
Byrd amendment that states that it is the
Agreed to in the Senate
1268
sense of the Senate that any request for
April 18, 2005
funds after FY2006 for an ongoing
61-31
military operation overseas, including
(vote #96)
operations in Afghanistan and Iraq, should
be included in the President’s annual
budget.
109th
H.Amdt. 214 to H.R.
Woolsey amendment to express the
Rejected in House
1815
sense of Congress that the President
May 25, 2005
should develop a plan for the withdrawal
128-300
of U.S. military forces from Iraq and
(vote #220)
Congressional Research Service

36

U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
National Defense
submit this plan to the congressional
Authorization Act for
defense committees.
Fiscal Year 2006

H.Res. 383
Commends U.S. and coalition forces for
Measure agreed to in
liberating the Iraqi people from the
House
repressive regime of Saddam Hussein and
July 27, 2005
for their ongoing efforts in support of
426-0
Iraq’s freedom and stability.
(vote #438)

S. 1042
Authorizes emergency supplemental
Measure passed in
National Defense
appropriations to the Department of
Senate
Authorization Act for
Defense for FY2006 for operations in
November 15, 2005
Fiscal Year 2006
Iraq, Afghanistan, and the global war on
98-0
terrorism.
(vote #326)

S.Amdt. 2518 to S.
Warner amendment to clarify and
Agreed to in Senate
1042
recommend changes to the policy of the
November 15, 2005
United States on Iraq. States that
79-19
calendar year 2006 should be a period of
(vote #323)
significant transition to ful Iraqi
sovereignty, with Iraqi security forces
taking the lead for the security of a free
and sovereign Iraq, thereby creating the
conditions for the phased redeployment
of U.S. forces from Iraq, and that U.S.
military forces should not stay in Iraq any
longer than required.
Amendment was amended in conference
(see H.Rept. 109-360) and included as
§1227 of H.R. 1815 (P.L. 109-163).

S.Amdt. 2519 to S.
Levin amendment to clarify and
Rejected in Senate
1042
recommend changes to the policy of the
November 15, 2005
United States on Iraq. States that
40-58
calendar year 2006 should be a period of
(vote #322)
significant transition to ful Iraqi
sovereignty, with Iraqi security forces
taking the lead for the security of a free
and sovereign Iraq, thereby creating the
conditions for the phased redeployment
of U.S. forces from Iraq, and that U.S.
military forces should not stay in Iraq
indefinitely.

H.Res. 571
Expresses the sense of the House of
Measure rejected in
Representatives that the deployment of
House
U.S. forces in Iraq be terminated
November 18, 2005
immediately.
3-403
(vote #608)

H.Res. 612
Expresses the commitment of the House
Measure agreed to in
of Representatives to achieving victory in
House
Iraq.
December 16, 2005
279-109
(vote #648)
109th
H.R. 2863
Appropriates additional funds, to be
Measure agreed to in
Department of Defense
designated for contingency operations
House
related to the global war on terrorism.
December 19, 2005
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37

U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
Appropriations Act,
Authorizes amounts for operations in
308-106
2006
Iraq and Afghanistan to be used for the
(vote #669)
purchase of heavy and light armored

vehicles. Allows operation and
maintenance funds appropriated in this
Measure agreed to in
title to be used to provide supplies,
Senate
services, transportation, and other
December 21, 2005
logistical support to coalition forces
93-0
supporting military and stability
(vote #366)
operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.

H.R. 4939
Prohibits the use of funds under this title
Measure passed House
(P.L. 109-234)
to establish permanent U.S. military bases March 16, 2006
Emergency
in Iraq, or to exercise U.S. control over
348-71
Supplemental
Iraqi oil infrastructure or resources.
(vote #65)
Appropriations Act for
Makes emergency supplemental

Defense, the Global
appropriations to the Department of
War on Terror, and
Measure passed in
Defense for: military personnel;
Hurricane Recovery,
Senate
operation and maintenance; the
2006
May 4, 2006
Afghanistan Security Forces Fund; the
77-21
Iraq Security Forces Fund; the Iraq
(vote #112)
Freedom Fund; the Joint Improvised
Explosive Device Defeat Fund;

procurement; research, development,
House adopted
test and evaluation.
conference report
Expresses the sense of the Senate that (1) June 13, 2006
any request for funds for a fiscal year
351-67
after 2007 for ongoing military operations (vote #257)
in Afghanistan and Iraq should be

included in the annual budget of the
Senate adopted
President submitted to Congress; (2)
conference report
such request should include a detailed
June 15, 2006
justification of anticipated uses of the
98-1
funds; and (3) any funds provided in a
(vote #171)
fiscal year for ongoing military operations
overseas should be provided in
appropriations Acts through
appropriations to specific accounts.

H.R. 5122
Title XV authorizes estimated future
Measure passed in
(P.L. 109-364)
emergency supplemental appropriations
House
John Warner National
for the Department of Defense for
May 11, 2006
Defense Authorization
FY2007 to provide funds for additional
396-31
Act for Fiscal Year 2007
costs due to Operation Iraqi Freedom
(vote #145)
and Operation Enduring Freedom.
Measure passed in
Senate (with
amendment)
June 22, 2006
(unanimous consent)
Conference report
adopted by House
September 29, 2006
398-23
(vote #510)
Conference report
adopted by Senate
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38

U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
September 30, 2006
(unanimous consent)
109th
H.R. 5631
Title IX authorizes the Secretary of
Measure passed in
(P.L. 109-289)
Defense to use specified Operations &
House
Department of Defense
Maintenance funds to support U.S.
June 20, 2006
Appropriations Act,
military operations in Iraq and
407-19
2007
Afghanistan.
(vote #305)
Measure passed in
Senate (amended)
September 7, 2006
98-0
(vote #239)
Conference report
adopted by House
September 26, 2006
394-22
(vote #486)
Conference report
adopted by Senate
September 29, 2006
100-0
(vote #261)

H.Res. 861
Declares that it is not in the national
Measure agreed to in
security interest of the United States to
House
set an arbitrary date for withdrawal or
June 16, 2006
redeployment of United States Armed
256-153
Forces from Iraq.
(vote #288)

S.Amdt. 4320
Levin amendment expressing the sense of Rejected in Senate
to S. 2766
Congress that the President should begin
June 22, 2006
John Warner National
phased redeployment of United States
39-60
Defense Authorization
forces from Iraq in 2006.
(vote #182)
Act for Fiscal Year 2007

S.Amdt. 4442
Kerry amendment to require the
Rejected in Senate
to S. 2766
redeployment of United States Armed
June 22, 2006
John Warner National
Forces from Iraq by July 1, 2007.
13-86
Defense Authorization
(vote #181)
Act for Fiscal Year 2007
110th
H.R. 1
(§2041) The United States shall
Measure agreed to in

(P.L. 110-53)
vigorously support the government of
House
Implementing the 9/11
Afghanistan by providing increased
January 9, 2007
Commission
assistance and the continued deployment
299-128
Recommendations Act
of U.S. troops as long as the Afghan
(vote #15)
of 2007
government supports such U.S.
Passed Senate with an
involvement.
amendment by
unanimous consent
July 9, 2007
Conference report
agreed to in Senate
July 26, 2007
85-5
(vote #284)
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39

U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
Conference report
agreed to in House
July 27, 2007
371-40
(vote #757)
S.Con.Res. 2
Expresses the sense of Congress that it is
Failure to invoke cloture
not in the U.S. national interest to
in Senate
deepen its military involvement in Iraq,
February 1, 2007
particularly by increasing the U.S. military
0-97
presence in Iraq.
(vote #43)
S. 470
Expresses the sense of Congress that the
Failure to invoke cloture
Senate disagrees with the plan to
in Senate February 5,
augment U.S. forces in Iraq by 21,500 and
2007
that Congress should not take any action
49-47
that endangers U.S. military forces in the
(vote #44)
field.
H.Con.Res. 63
Disapproving of the decision of the
Measure agreed to in
President announced on January 10, 2007, House
to deploy more than 20,000 additional
February 16, 2007
United States combat troop to Iraq.
246-182
(vote #99)
S. 574
Expresses the sense of Congress that
Failure to invoke cloture
Congress and the American people wil
in Senate
continue to support and protect U.S.
February 17, 2007
Armed Forces members who are serving
56-34
in Iraq; Congress disapproves of
(vote #51)
President Bush’s decision announced on
January 10, 2007, to deploy over 20,000
additional U.S. combat troops to Iraq.
S.J.Res. 9
Directs the President to begin the phased Measure rejected in
redeployment of U.S. forces from Iraq
Senate
within 120 days of enactment of this joint
March 15, 2007
resolution with the goal of redeploying by 48-50
March 31, 2008, all U.S. combat forces
(vote #75)
from Iraq.
S.Res. 107
Declares that the President and Congress Measure agreed to in
should not take any action that wil
Senate
endanger U.S. Armed Forces; and wil
March 15, 2007
provide necessary funds for training,
96-2
equipment, and other support for troops
(vote #76)
in the field.
S.Con.Res. 20
Expresses the sense of Congress that
Agreed to in Senate
Congress should not take any action that
March 15, 2007
wil endanger U.S. military forces in the
82-16
field, including the elimination or
(vote #77)
reduction of funds for troops in the field.

H.R. 1591
Makes emergency supplemental
Measure passed in
U.S. Troop Readiness,
appropriations for the Department of
House
Veterans’ Care, Katrina
Defense for FY2007 for contingency
March 23, 2007
Recovery, and Iraq
operations directly related to the global
218-212
Accountability
war on terror.
(vote #186)

Congressional Research Service

40

U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
Appropriations Act,
Prohibits any funds from being obligated
Measure passed in
2007
or expended by the U.S. government to
Senate
establish any military installation or base
March 29, 2007
for the permanent stationing of U.S.
51-47
Armed Forces in Iraq.
(vote #126)
Prohibits funds from being used to deploy
any unit of the Armed Forces to Iraq
Conference report
unless the chief of the military
adopted by House
department concerned has certified that
April 25, 2007
such unit is ful y mission capable.
218-208
Prohibits funds from being used to
(vote #265)
initiate, execute, or continue any order

that has the effect of extending the
deployment for Operation Iraqi Freedom
Conference report
of any unit of the Army, Army Reserve,
adopted by Senate
or Army National Guard beyond 365
April 26, 2007
days; or Marine Corps or Marine Corps
51-46
Reserve beyond 210 days.
(vote #147)
Outlines specified determinations,

relating to actions of the government of
House failed to override
Iraq, which must be made by the
veto
President to Congress on or before July
May 2, 2007
1, 2007. Requires that, if the President
222-203
fails to make any of the determinations,
(vote #276)
the Secretary of Defense shall commence
the redeployment of U.S. Armed Forces
from Iraq no later than such date, with a
goal of completing such redeployment
within 180 days. Requires that, if the
President makes all such determinations,
the Secretary shall commence such
redeployment no later than October 1,
2007, with a goal of completing that
redeployment within 180 days.
Makes funds immediately available to plan
and execute a safe and orderly
redeployment.
110th
S.Amdt. 643
To strike language that would tie the
Rejected in Senate
to H.R. 1591
hands of the Commander-in-Chief by
March 27, 2007
imposing an arbitrary timetable for the
48-50
withdrawal of U.S. forces from Iraq.
(vote #116)
H.R. 1591
Motion to instruct House conferees to
Motion agreed to
include language insisting on House-
April 19, 2007
passed provisions concerning
215-199
redeployment of U.S. troops in Iraq and
(vote #235)
restrictions on their use in Iraq after
redeployment.
H.R. 2237
Requires the Secretary of Defense to
Measure failed of
commence the redeployment of U.S.
passage in House
forces deployed in Iraq and prohibits any
May 10, 2007
funds from being used to further deploy
171-255
U.S. forces to Iraq after completion of
(vote #330)
the redeployment.

H.R. 2206
Makes emergency supplemental
Measure passed in
(P.L. 110-28)
appropriations for the Department of
House
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41

U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
U.S. Troop Readiness,
Defense for FY2007. Requires the
May 10, 2007
Veterans’ Care, Katrina
President to direct the orderly
221-205
Recovery, and Iraq
redeployment of U.S. forces from Iraq if
(vote #333)
Accountability
the components of the Iraqi government
Measure passed in
Appropriations Act,
reach a consensus directing a
Senate by voice vote
2007
redeployment of U.S. Forces. Makes
May 17, 2007
findings regarding progress in Iraq,
establishes benchmarks to measure
Motion to concur in
progress, and requires related reports.
House amendments
Prohibits any funds from being obligated
agreed to in Senate
or expended by the U.S. government to
May 24, 2007
establish any military installation or base
80-14
for the permanent stationing of U.S.
(vote #181)
Armed Forces in Iraq.
110th
S.Amdt. 1098 to
Directs the President to commence the
Failure to invoke cloture
S.Amdt. 1097, H.R.
redeployment of U.S. forces from Iraq
in Senate
1495
within 120 days. No funds may be
May 16, 2007
Water Resources
obligated or expended to continue the
29-67
Development Act of
deployment in Iraq of members of the
(vote #167)
2007
U.S. Armed Forces after March 31, 2008.
S.Amdt. 1134 to H.R.
Requires the President to withhold
Failure to invoke cloture
1495
funding for military operations in Iraq if
in Senate May 16, 2007
Water Resources
the Iraqi government fails to meet certain
52-44
Development Act of
benchmarks. The President could waive
(vote #168)
2007
the requirement by submitting a written
justification to Congress.
H.R. 1585
Amends the Warner Act to make
Measure passed in
National Defense
permanent the prohibition on the
House
Authorization Act for
establishment of permanent military
May 17, 2007
Fiscal Year 2008
installations in Iraq. Authorizes
397-27
appropriations for the Department of
(vote #373)
Defense for FY2008 to provide additional
Passed Senate with an
funds for Operations Iraqi Freedom and
amendment
Enduring Freedom.
October 1, 2007
92 – 3
(vote #359)
House agreed to
conference report
December 12, 2007
370-49
(vote #1151)
Senate agreed to
conference report
December 14, 2007
90-3
(vote #433)
H.Amdt. 186 to H.R.
Andrews amendment to forbid funds
Rejected in Committee
1585
authorized in the bil for the Iraq and
of the Whole
Afghanistan wars from being used to plan
May 16, 2007
a contingency operation in Iran.
202-216
(vote #364)
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42

U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
H.Amdt. 187 to H.R.
DeFazio amendment states that no prior
Rejected in Committee
1585
law authorizes the use of military force
of the Whole
against Iran, and prohibits the use of
May 16, 2007
funds authorized in the Act or any other
law from being used to carry out military
136-288
action against Iran unless specifically
(vote #365)
authorized by Congress or in the case of
a national emergency caused by a direct
attack by Iran on the United States.

S.Amdt. 2012 to
Webb amendment specifies minimum
Failure to invoke cloture
S.Amdt. 2011 to H.R.
periods between deployment of units and
in Senate
1585
members of the Armed Forces for
July 11, 2007
Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation
56-41
Enduring Freedom.
(vote #241)
110th
S.Amdt. 2032 to
Hagel amendment to limit the length of
Rejected in Senate
S.Amdt. 2011 to H.R.
deployment of members of the Armed
July 11, 2007
1585
Forced for Operation Iraqi Freedom.
52-45
(vote #243)

S.Amdt. 2078
Graham amendment to express the sense Rejected in Senate
to H.R. 1585
of Congress that the time between
July 11, 2007
extended operational deployments of
41-55
members of the Armed Forces should be
(vote #244)
no less than 12 months for regular forces
and no less than 5 years for reserve
forces.

S.Amdt. 2087 to
Levin amendment to mandate a
Failure to invoke cloture
S.Amdt. 2011 to H.R.
drawdown and redeployment of U.S.
in Senate
1585
forces in Iraq, with certain exceptions, by
July 18, 2007
the end of April 2008, with redeployment
beginning within 120 days of enactment.
52-47
(vote #252)

S.Amdt. 2924 to
Feingold amendment to require
Rejected in Senate
S.Amdt. 2011 to H.R.
redeployment of most U.S. troops from
September 20, 2007
1585
Iraq beginning within 90 days of
28-70
enactment, and bars use of funds for
deployment of U.S. servicemembers to
(vote #345)
Iraq after June 30, 2008, with certain
exceptions.

S.Amdt. 2898 to
Levin amendment to require reduction of
Rejected in Senate
S.Amdt. 2011 to H.R.
U.S. forces in Iraq within 90 days of
September 21, 2007
1585
enactment and within nine months of
47-47
enactment, the transition of U.S. forces in
Iraq to a limited presence for certain
(vote #346)
specified types of missions.

H.R. 2956
Directs the Secretary of Defense to
Measure passed in
commence the reduction of the number
House
of Armed Forces in Iraq beginning within
July 12, 2007
120 days and complete the reduction and
223-201
transition to a limited presence in Iraq by
(vote #624)
no later than April 1, 2008.

H.R. 2929
Declares that it is the policy of the
Measure passed in
United States not to establish any military House
installation or base providing for the
July 25, 2007
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43

U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
permanent stationing of U.S. Armed
399-24
Forces in Iraq.
(vote #717)

H.R. 3159
Prohibits any unit of the regular Armed
Measure passed in
Forces from being deployed for
House
Operation Iraqi Freedom unless the
August 2, 2007
period between the most recent previous 229-194
deployment and a subsequent
(vote #796)
deployment is equal to or longer than the
period of the most recent previous
deployment. Expresses the sense of
Congress that the optimal minimum
period between such deployments should
be equal to or longer than twice the
period of the most recent previous
deployment.
110th
H.R. 3222
(§8113) “None of the funds appropriated
Measure passed in
Department of Defense
or otherwise made available by this or
House
Appropriations Act,
any other Act shall be obligated or
August 5, 2007
2008
expended by the United States
395-13
Government .. to establish any military
(vote #846)
installation or base for the purpose of
Passed in Senate with
providing for the permanent stationing of
amendment by voice
United States Armed Forces in Iraq.”
vote
(§8116) “Any request for funds for a fiscal October 3, 2007
year after FY2008 for an ongoing military
operation overseas, including operations
Conference report
in Afghanistan and Iraq, shall be included
agreed to in House
in the annual budget of the President for
November 8, 2007
such fiscal year as submitted to
400-15
Congress.”
(vote #1064)
Conference report
agreed to in Senate by
voice vote

H.R. 3087
A bil to require the Secretary of Defense Motion to suspend the
to submit to the congressional defense
rules and pass the bil
committees a report describing the status agreed to in House
of planning for redeployment of U.S.
October 2, 2007
forces from Iraq. Report to be due within 377-46
60 days of enactment and every 90 days
thereafter.
(vote #927)

H.R. 4156
A provision would require U.S. troops to
Motion to recommit the
Iraq War Supplemental
begin withdrawing from Iraq within 30
bil to committee with
Appropriations
days of enactment and most troops to be
instructions it be
withdrawn by December 15, 2008.
reported back
immediately after
striking troop
withdrawal provisions
rejected in House
November 14, 2007
192-231
(vote #1107)
Measure passed in
House
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44

U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
November 14, 2007
218-203
(vote #1108)
Failure to invoke cloture
in Senate November 16,
2007 53-45
(vote #411)

S.Amdt 3875 to
Feingold amendment would require
By unanimous consent,
S.Amdt. 3874 to H.R.
phased redeployment of U.S. troops from it was agreed to raise
2764
Iraq within 90 days after enactment and
the majority
requirement for
Omnibus
bar use of funds for deployment nine
adoption of the
Appropriations for
months after enactment, with certain
amendment to 60 votes.
FY2008
specified exceptions. Amendment 3874
would replace the $31 bil ion in funding
Amendment 3875 was
for the Afghanistan war included in the
subsequently withdrawn.
bil with $70 bil ion available for
S.Amdt. 3874 agreed to
unrestricted use in conducting the wars
in Senate
in Iraq and Afghanistan.
December 18, 2007
70-25
(vote #439)
S.Amdt. 3875 rejected in
Senate
December 18, 2007, 24-
71
(vote #437)
110th
S.Amdt. 3876 to
Levin amendment expressed the sense of
By unanimous consent,
S.Amdt. 3874 to H.R.
Congress that the missions of U.S.
it was agreed to raise
2764
Armed Forces in Iraq should be of a
the majority
Omnibus
more limited nature, with the goal of
requirement for
Appropriations for
transition to ful Iraqi control by the end
adoption of the
FY2008
of 2008. Amendment would replace $31
amendment to 60 votes.
bil ion in funding for the Afghanistan war
Amendment 3876 was
included in the bil with $70 bil ion
subsequently withdrawn.
available for unrestricted use in
Rejected in Senate
conducting the wars in Iraq and
December 18, 2007
Afghanistan.
50-45
(vote #438)

S. 2633
A bil forbidding the use of funds for
Cloture on motion to
Troop Redeployment
deployment of U.S. troops in Iraq, with
proceed to measure
from Iraq
specified exceptions, 120 days after
invoked
enactment.
February 26, 2008
70-24
(vote #33)
Motion to proceed to
consideration
subsequently withdrawn

H.R. 2642
Motion to concur with Senate
Motion agreed to in
(P.L. 110-252)
amendments with House amendment no.
House
2. Would require withdrawal of troops
Supplemental
May 15, 2008
from Iraq within 30 days of enactment,
Appropriations
with a goal of ful withdrawal of combat
227-196

troops by December 2009. Would
(vote #329)
require Congress to authorize any U.S.-
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45

U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
Iraqi agreement committing U.S. forces.
Would prohibit deployment of any units
not rated as ful y mission-capable, subject
to Presidential waiver. Would prohibit
interrogation techniques not authorized
in the Army Field Manual, and would
prohibit establishment of a permanent
base in Iraq. (Note: only prohibition on
permanent base in Iraq appears in public
law).4

H.R. 2642
Motion to concur in the House
Motion agreed to in
(P.L. 110-252)
amendments to Senate amendment to
Senate, clearing the bil
House amendments to Senate
for the President
Supplemental
amendment to the bil making
Appropriations
June 26, 2008
supplemental appropriations for wars in

Iraq and Afghanistan, which included a
92-6
provision barring the establishment of
(vote #162)
permanent U.S. bases in Iraq.5
111th
H.Amdt. 262 to H.R.
McGovern amendment to require the
Amendment rejected in
Note: From
2647
Defense Department to submit a report
the Committee of the
the 111th
National Defense
to Congress no later than December 31,
Whole
Congress
Authorization Act for
2009, presenting an exit strategy for U.S.
June 25, 2009
forward, votes
FY2010
Armed Forces conducting the war in
138-278
on simple
Afghanistan.
funding or
(vote #453)
authorization
for overseas
contingency
operations in
Iraq and
Afghanistan
have not been
included.
111th
H. Con Res. 248
Concurrent resolution would direct the
Rejected in House
Afghanistan Troop
President to withdraw U.S. forces from
March 10, 2010
Withdrawal
Afghanistan within 30 days of adoption,
65-356
or by December 31, 2010, if the
President determines that withdrawal
(vote #98)
within 30 days cannot be safely
accomplished.

H.R. 4899
Fourth portion of a divided question,
Motion to concur in
Supplemental
consisting of a House amendment that
Senate amendments
Appropriations Act,
would limit military funding for
with House
2010
Afghanistan to activities related to the
amendments rejected in
protection and safe withdrawal of U.S.
House
troops and civilian and military personnel. July 1, 2010

100-321

(vote #432)
Fifth portion of a divided question,

consisting of a House amendment to

4 “President Prevails on War Funding,” CQ Almanac 2008, 64th ed., Washington, DC: Congressional Quarterly, 2009,
at. http://library.cqpress.com/cqalmanac/cqal08-1090-52021-2174742.
5 Ibid.
Congressional Research Service

46

U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
require the President to present a new
Motion to concur in
National Intelligence Estimate on
Senate amendments
Afghanistan to Congress by January 31,
with House
2011, and also a plan for the
Amendments rejected in
redeployment of U.S. forces from
House
Afghanistan by April 4, 2011.
July 1, 2010
162-260
(vote #433)

H. Con. Res. 301
Concurrent resolution would direct the
Rejected in House
Pakistan Troop
President to remove U.S. Armed Forces
July 27, 2010
Withdrawal
from Pakistan within 30 days of adoption,
or by December 31st, 2010, if the
38-372
President determines that this could not
(vote #473)
be accomplished safely within 30 days.
112th
H.Amdt. 93 to
Nadler amendment would require that
Rejected in Committee
H.R. 1
no more than $10 bil ion be used for U.S.
of the Whole
military operations in Afghanistan.
Disaster Relief
February 18, 2011
Appropriations Act,
98-331
2013
(vote #91)

H.Amdt. 257 to
Grijalva substitute amendment assumes
Rejected in Committee
H. Con. Res. 34
the end of emergency supplemental
of the Whole
appropriations for overseas contingency
FY2012 Budget
April 15, 2011
operations beginning in 2013, consistent
Resolution-
with U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan
77-347
Congressional
and Iraq.
(vote #274)
Progressive Caucus
substitute

H.Amdt. 327 to H.R.
Amash amendment would strike bil
Rejected in Committee
1540
section that would “affirm” that the U.S.
of the Whole
National Defense
is engaged in armed conflict with al
May 26, 2011
Authorization Act for
Qaeda, the Taliban, and their associates,
187-234
FY2012
and that those forces threated the U.S.
and its citizens. Would also affirm the
(vote #361)
authorization for use of military force in
Afghanistan and the authority to detain
“belligerents” until hostilities end.
112th
H.Amdt. 330 to H.R.
Chaffetz amendment would require the
Rejected in Committee
1540
Secretary of Defense to begin a phased
of the Whole
National Defense
withdrawal of U.S. forces operating in
May 26, 2011
Authorization Act for
Afghanistan, except for those involved in
123-294
FY2012
small, targeted counterterrorism
missions. Would require a withdrawal
(vote #364)
plan to be submitted to Congress by the
Secretary within 60 days of enactment.

H.Amdt. 385 to H.R.
Sherman amendment would bar the use
Rejected in Committee
2017
of funds in the bil to contravene the War of the Whole
Continuing
Powers Resolution.
June 2, 2011
Appropriations Act,
208-213
2012
(vote #394)

H.Amdt. 414 to H.R.
Sherman amendment would bar the use
Adopted in Committee
2055
of funds in the bil to contravene the War of the Whole
Powers Resolution
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47

U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
Consolidated
Included as §8129 in engrossed version of
June 13, 2011
Appropriations Act,
H.R. 2055 (P.L. 112-74)
248-163
2012
(vote #415)

H.Amdt. 525 to H.R.
Lee amendment would reduce funding of
Rejected in Committee
2219
overseas contingency operations and aid
of the Whole
Department of Defense
to Afghanistan and Pakistan by $33 bil ion, July 7, 2011
Appropriations Act,
with the aim of reducing funding for the
97-322
2012
war in Afghanistan.
(vote #502)

H.Amdt. 526 to H.R.
Garamendi amendment would reduce
Rejected in Committee
2219
funding of overseas contingency
of the Whole
Department of Defense
operations and aid to Afghanistan and
July 7, 2011
Appropriations Act,
Pakistan by $20.9 bil ion, with the aim of
133-295
2012
reducing funding for the war in
Afghanistan.
(vote #503)

H.Amdt. 528 to H.R.
Nadler amendment would reduce funding Rejected in Committee
2219
for the Army’s maintenance and
of the Whole
Department of Defense
operations account for overseas
July 7, 2011
Appropriations Act,
contingency operations by $15 mil ion,
174-251
2012
and increase it by the same amount, with
the aim of requiring that at least $15
(vote #504)
mil ion be used for insulating forward
operating bases in Afghanistan.

H.Amdt. 529 to H.R.
Poe amendment would direct a $1 bil ion
Rejected in Committee
2219
reduction from a fund to reimburse allies
of the Whole
Department of Defense
for support in the Afghanistan war. Funds
July 7, 2011
Appropriations Act,
would be transferred to the bil ’s
131-297
2012
spending reduction account.
(vote #505)
112th
H.Amdt. 530 to H.R.
Lee amendment to eliminate the $5
Rejected in Committee
2219
bil ion in funding for the Overseas
of the Whole
Department of Defense
Contingency Operation Transfer Fund
July 7, 2011
Appropriations Act,
and move those funds to the bil ’s
114-314
2012
spending reduction account.
(vote #506)

H.Amdt. 553 to H.R.
Sherman amendment would prohibit the
Adopted in Committee
2219
use of funds in the bil to contravene the
of the Whole
Department of Defense
War Powers Resolution.
July 7, 2011
Appropriations Act,
Included as §8129 in engrossed version of
316-111
2012
H.R. 2055 (P.L. 112-74)
(vote #518)

H.Amdt. 567 to H.R.
Flake amendment to reduce funding for
Rejected in Committee
2219
the Overseas Contingency Operations
of the Whole
Department of Defense
Transfer Fund by almost $3.6 bil ion.
July 8, 2011
Appropriations Act,
118-295
2012
(vote #526)

S.Amdt. 1064 to S.
Paul amendment would repeal the 2002
Rejected in Senate
1867
authorization for use of military force
November 29, 2011 30-
National Defense
against Iraq.
67
Authorization Act for
(vote #211)
FY2012
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48

U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes

S.Amdt. 1274 to S.
Sessions amendment would clarify that
Rejected in Senate
1867
the President retains the option to detain
December 1, 2011
National Defense
persons captured under authority of the
41-59
Authorization Act for
2001 authorization for use of military
(vote #217)
FY2012
force in Afghanistan until the end of the
conflict.

H.Amdt. 1103 to
Lee amendment would limit the use of
Rejected in Committee
H.R. 4310
funds provided for operations in
of the Whole
National Defense
Afghanistan to the purpose of facilitating
May 17, 2012
Authorization Act for
a safe and orderly withdrawal.
113-303
FY2013
(vote #264)

H.Amdt. 1414 to
Lee amendment would reduce funding for Rejected in Committee
H.R. 5856
overseas contingency operations by $20.8 of the Whole
Department of Defense
bil ion and would limit the use of funds
July 18, 2012
Appropriations Act,
provided for operations in Afghanistan to
107-312
2013
the purpose of facilitating a safe and
orderly withdrawal. The reductions
(vote #485)
would not apply to Defense Health
Program, Drug Interdiction and Counter-
Drug Activities, Defense, Joint Improvised
Explosive Device Defeat Fund, Office of
the Inspector General.

H.Amdt. 1430 to
Garamendi amendment would reduce
Rejected in Committee
H.R. 5856
funding in the Overseas Contingency
of the Whole
Department of Defense
Operations account by almost $12.7
July 19, 2012
Appropriations Act,
bil ion. Reductions would not to apply to
137-278
2013
the Afghanistan Security Forces fund, the
Defense Health Program, Drug
(vote #494)
Interdiction and Counter-Drug Activities-
Defense, Joint Improvised Explosive
Device Defeat Fund, or the Office of the
Inspector General.
112th
S.Amdt. 3096 to S.
Merkley amendment would express the
Adopted in Senate
3254
sense of Congress that security
November 29, 2012 62-
National Defense
operations in Afghanistan should be
33
Authorization Act for
transferred to the Afghan government by
(vote #210)
FY2013
mid-summer 2013 and that combat
operations by U.S. forces should end no
later than December 31, 2014.
Amendment was amended in conference
(see H. Rept. 112-705) and included as
§1226 of H.R. 4310 (P.L. 112-239).
113th
H.Amdt. 34 to H.
Grijalva substitute amendment would
Rejected in Committee
Con. Res. 25
assume, among other assumptions, the
of the Whole
FY2014 Budget
elimination of funding for overseas
March 20, 2013
Resolution-
contingency operations after FY2015.
84-327
Congressional
Progressive Caucus
(vote #85)
Substitute

H.Amdt. 36 to H.
Van Hol en substitute amendment would
Rejected in Committee
Con. Res. 25
assume, among other assumptions, no
of the Whole
funding for overseas contingency
March 20, 2013
operations after FY2014.
Congressional Research Service

49

U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
FY2014 Budget
165-253
Resolution-
(vote #87)
House Democratic
substitute

H.R. 1960
As amended, contains a provision stating
Passed in House
National Defense
that it is U.S. policy that the President
June 14, 2013
Authorization Act for
shall transfer combat operations from
315-108
FY2014
U.S. forces to Afghanistan by the end of
2013 and complete an accelerated
(vote #244)
transition of military and security
operations by the end of 2014.

H.Amdt. 149 to H.R.
McGovern amendment would require
Adopted in the
1960
that the accelerated transition of combat
Committee of the
National Defense
operations from U.S. forces to the
Whole
Authorization Act for
Afghan government be completed no
June 13, 2013
FY2014
later than the end of 2013, and the
accelerate transition of military and
305-121
security operations by the end of 2014.
(vote #226)
Also would express the sense of
Congress that if the President determines
the presence of U.S. troops is necessary
in Afghanistan beyond the end of 2014,
Congress should vote to authorize such
deployment no later than June 2014.
Included with clarifying amendment as
§1222 of H.R. 3304, P.L. 113-66.

H.Amdt. 171 to H.R.
Van Hol en amendment would reduce the Rejected in Committee
1960
amount authorized for the Overseas
of the Whole
National Defense
Contingency Operations account by
June 14, 2013
Authorization Act for
$5.04 bil ion and specify that the savings
191-232
FY2014
be used for deficit reduction.
(vote #240)

H.Amdt. 392 to H.R.
Mulvaney amendment would reduce the
Adopted in Committee
2397
Overseas Contingency Operations
of the Whole
Department of Defense
account by $3.5 bil ion. National Guard
July 24, 2013
Appropriations Act,
and Reserve funding would not be
215-206
2014
affected.
(vote #403)
113th
H.Amdt. 407 to H.R.
Schiff amendment would bar funding from Rejected in Committee
2397
the bil for the use of military force after
of the Whole
Department of Defense
December 31, 2014, pursuant to the
July 24, 2013
Appropriations Act,
2001 Authorization for Use of Military
185-236
2014
Force (P.L. 107-40).
(vote #410)

H.Amdt. 613 to H.
Moore substitute amendment setting
Rejected in Committee
Con Res. 96
budget priorities, including ending
of the Whole
FY 2015 Budget
spending from the Defense Department
April 9, 2014
Resolution-
Overseas Contingency Operations
116-300
Congressional Black
account.
Caucus Substitute
(vote #172)

H.Amdt. 614 to H.
Grijalva substitute amendment setting
Rejected in Committee
Con. Res. 96
budget priorities, including the
of the Whole
April 9, 2014
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U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
FY 2015 Budget
elimination of funding for Overseas
89-327
Resolution-
Contingency Operations after FY 2015.
(vote #173)
Congressional
Progressive Caucus
Substitute

H.Amdt. 680 to H.R.
Schiff amendment to suspend the 2001
Rejected in Committee
4435
Authorization for Use of Military Force
of the Whole
Howard P. “Buck”
(AUMF) effective 12 months from the
May 22, 2014
McKeon National
bil ’s date of enactment
191-233
Defense Authorization
Act for FY 2015
(vote #237)

H.Amdt. 908 to H.R.
Lee amendment to bar the use of any
Rejected in Committee
4870
funds for combat operations in Iraq.
of the Whole
Department of Defense
June 19, 2014
Appropriations Act,
165-250
2015
(vote #325)

H.Amdt. 912 to H.R.
Lee amendment would prohibit the
Rejected in Committee
4870
obligation or expenditure of any funds
of the Whole
Department of Defense
under the bil pursuant to the 2002
June 19, 2014
Appropriations Act,
Authorization for Use of Military Force
182-231
2015
Against Iraq Resolution (P.L. 107-243).
(vote # 326)

H.Amdt. 922 to H.R.
Lee amendment would bar the use of
Rejected in Committee
4870
funds for any military operations under
of the Whole
Department of Defense
the 2001 Authorization for Use of
June 19, 2014
Appropriations Act,
Military Force after December 31, 2014.
157-260
2015
(vote # 330)

H.Amdt. 928 to H.R.
Lee amendment to prohibit use of funds
Rejected in Committee
4870
in the bil for combat operations in
of the Whole
Department of Defense
Afghanistan.
June 20, 2014
Appropriations Act,
153-260
2015
(vote #332)

H. Con. Res. 105
Resolution to prohibit the President from Adopted July 25, 2014
Iraq Combat Prohibition deploying or maintaining U.S. Armed
370-40
Forces in a sustained combat mission in
(vote #452)
Iraq without specific statutory
authorization.
114th
H.Amdt. 1036 to
El ison amendment would strike
Failed on passage
H.R. 4909
provisions in the bil urging the President
May 18, 2016
131-292
National Defense
to expand the mission in Afghanistan.
(vote #212)
Authorization Act for
FY 2017
Revolution and Aftermath in Libya
The 2011 uprising against Libyan dictator Muammar Qadhafi prompted calls for Western military
assistance to the rebels, initially in the form of a no-fly zone to prevent regime aircraft from
attacking rebel forces and civilians. As the revolt progressed, air strikes were conducted by U.S.
and NATO forces against regime targets under Operation Odyssey Dawn and Operation Unified
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U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Protector. The Qadhafi government was overthrown and Qadhafi himself was killed, leading to
the lifting of strict regime political control in Libya but also to an uncertain security environment
in which rival militias competed in the absence of any strong central authority. U.S. military
operations began in March 2011 and ended in October 2011. A September 11, 2012, armed attack
on a U.S. diplomatic compound in Benghazi, Libya resulted in the deaths of four Americans,
including the U.S. ambassador.
Related CRS products
CRS In Focus IF11556, Libya and U.S. Policy, by Christopher M. Blanchard.
CRS Report RL33142, Libya: Transition and U.S. Policy, by Christopher M. Blanchard.
Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
112th
H.Amdt. 333 to H.R.
Conyers amendment would bar the use of
Adopted in Committee
1540
authorized bil funds from being used to
of the Whole
deploy, establish, or maintain U.S. Armed
National Defense
May 26, 2011
Forces or contractors in Libya unless their
Authorization Act for
purpose is to rescue a servicemember from
416-5
FY2012
imminent danger.
(vote #366)

H. Res. 292
Resolution would direct the transmission of
Adopted by House
Use of Ground Forces
certain documents to the House and direct
June 3, 2011
in Libya
the President to submit a report on military
activities in Libya within 14 days. It states
268-145
that no “compelling rationale” for U.S.
(vote #411)
action in Libya has been provided, that
Armed Forces should be used only to
defend and advance U.S. national security
interests, and that ground forces should not
be deployed in Libya unless to rescue
servicemembers in imminent danger.
H. Con. Res. 51
Would direct the President, pursuant to the
Rejected by House
Libya Troop
War Powers Resolution, to withdraw U.S.
June 3, 2011

Withdrawal
forces from Libya within 15 days of
adoption.
148-265
(vote #412)
H. J. Res. 68
Provides a one-year authorization for the
Rejected by House
Libya Use of Force
limited use of military force in support of
June 24, 2011
Authorization
NATO’s mission in Libya. States the
opposition of Congress to the presence of
123-295

U.S. forces on the ground in Libya, except
(vote #493)
to protect U.S. officials or rescue troops.
Directs the President to provide regular
briefings and consultation to Congress.
H.Amdt. 542 to H.R.
Cole amendment would prohibit the use of
Adopted in Committee
2219
funds in the bil for training, equipping,
of the Whole
advising, or otherwise supporting groups or
112th
Department of Defense
July 7, 2011
Appropriations Act,
individuals engaged in military activities in
225-201
2012
Libya unless they are part of a nation’s
official armed forces.
(vote #513)
H.Amdt. 543 to H.R.
Amash amendment to bar use of funds in
Rejected in Committee
2219
the bil to fund the use of military force in
of the Whole

Department of Defense
Libya.
July 7, 2011
Appropriations Act,
199-229
2012
(vote #514)
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Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
H.Amdt. 544 to H.R.
Rigell amendment would bar funds from
Rejected in Committee
2219
being used for Operation Odyssey Dawn
of the Whole

Department of Defense
and Operation Unified Protector.
July 7, 2011
Appropriations Act,
176-249
2012
(vote #515)
H.Amdt. 555 to H.R.
Gohmert amendment would bar the use of
Rejected in Committee
2219
funds in the bil to support military
of the Whole

Department of Defense
operations, including those of NATO and
July 7, 2011
Appropriations Act,
the United Nations, in Libya and Libyan
162-265
2012
airspace.
(vote #520)

H.Amdt. 579 to H.R.
Kucinich amendment would bar the use of
Rejected in Committee
2219
funds in the bil for military actions in Libya
of the Whole
Department of Defense
unless they take place under a declaration of July 8, 2011
Appropriations Act,
war against Libya pursuant to Article I of the 169-251
2012
Constitution.
(vote #530)
Uprising and Armed Conflict in Syria
What began as protests, then an internal armed uprising in Syria in 2011 became a broader
conflict, with various factions of Syrian rebels and foreign fighters joined in combat with each
other as well as with the forces of the Assad regime, itself aided by fighters from outside Syria. In
summer 2013 the Obama Administration announced that the U.S. intelligence community had
determined “with high confidence” that the Assad regime had used chemical weapons attacks
against its own people, resulting in mass casualties. The United States has been providing
nonlethal materiel support to selected opposition groups, and a congressionally authorized U.S.
train-and-equip program continues. See section below, “Military Action against the Islamic State
(ISIS, ISIL).”
Related CRS products
CRS Report RL33487, Armed Conflict in Syria: Overview and U.S. Response, by Carla E.
Humud.
CRS In Focus IF11080, Syria Conflict Overview: 2011-2021, by Carla E. Humud.
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U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
113th
H.Amdt. 162 to
Gibson amendment to strike a provision in
Rejected in Committee
H.R. 1960
the bil that would express the sense of
of the Whole
National Defense
Congress that the Syrian conflict poses a
June 14, 2013
Authorization Act for
threat to the national security interests of
123-301
FY2014
Israel and that the President should
consider options leading to the removal of
(vote #234)
President Assad and plan for rendering
assistance to forces fighting the Assad
regime.
116th
H. Con. Res. 77
Directs the President to remove the
Rule H. Res. 739
Directing the
Armed Forces from Syria, except for those passed in the House,
President to remove
engaged in operations against al Qaeda or
which allowed the Rules
United States Armed
associated forces, unless a declaration of
Committee to discharge
Forces from the Syrian war or specific authorization is enacted.
H. Con. Res. 77
Arab Republic that
December 4, 2019
have not been
225-196
authorized by
Congress.
(vote #646)

118th
H.Con.Res.21
Directs the President, pursuant to §5(c) of
Failed of passage/not
Directing the
the War Powers Resolution, to remove
agreed to in House
President to remove
the United States Armed Forces from
March 8, 2023
the United States
Syria within 180 days.
103-321
Armed Forces from
Syria.
(vote #136)

Military Action against the Islamic State (ISIS, ISIL)
One group rose to prominence in the fighting against the Assad regime: the self-proclaimed
“Islamic State,” also known as ISIS (Islamic State in Iraq and Syria) and ISIL (Islamic State in
Iraq and the Levant). A lineal descendant or continuation of the insurgent group al-Qaeda in Iraq,
some of its senior operatives gained experience fighting American forces in Iraq. Particularly
noted for sophisticated online media releases and extremely brutal tactics, the Islamic State in its
self-released videos showed numerous massacres and beheadings, including those of a number of
captured Westerners. It made significant territorial gains in Syria and also in Iraq, where its forces
captured refineries and banks, thereby acquiring a self-financing capacity. The Iraqi military
suffered high personnel losses through casualties and desertions, and enormous losses of materiel.
After a series of online releases depicting the beheadings of American captives of the Islamic
State, and in the wake of the success of the Islamic State campaign in Iraq and Syria, President
Obama authorized a program of aid to anti-Islamic State forces, particularly the Iraqi military and
the Kurds. In cooperation with a coalition of allies, he ordered air strikes designed to assist Iraqi
and Kurdish forces battling the Islamic State and degrade Islamic State military capabilities.
The Islamic State has suffered extensive territorial losses in the combined campaign and today
controls far less territory in Syria and Iraq than at the height of its power, but the potential for
terrorist acts committed by Islamic State foreign fighters returning to their countries of origin is a
matter of concern for antiterrorism and police authorities.
Related CRS products
CRS In Focus IF10328, The Islamic State, by Carla E. Humud.
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U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

CRS Report R43612, The Islamic State and U.S. Policy, by Christopher M. Blanchard and Carla
E. Humud.
CRS Report R43760, A New Authorization for Use of Military Force Against the Islamic State:
Issues and Current Proposals, by Matthew C. Weed.
CRS In Focus IF10604, Terrorist Groups in Afghanistan, by Clayton Thomas.
Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
113th
H.Amdt. 1141 to
McKeon amendment to authorize the
Adopted by House
H.J. Res. 124
training and equipping of “appropriately
September 17, 2014
Continuing
vetted” Syrian rebel groups to defend
273-156
Appropriations
against Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS)
(vote #507)
Resolution, 2015
attacks. Amendment would bar use of the
amendment to justify sending U.S. Armed
Forces into hostile situations and would
require the President to report to
Congress under the War Powers
Resolution any use of U.S. Armed Forces
abroad. Authority for the training and
equipping provisions would expire
December 11, 2014, or earlier if
replacement defense authorization
legislation is enacted.

H.R. 3979
Motion to concur in the Senate
Motion agreed to in
National Defense
amendment to the House amendment to
House
Authorization Act for
the bil , which includes authorization for
December 4, 2014
FY 2015
the appropriation of an additional $5.1
bil ion in funding for opposition to the
300-119
Islamic State in Iraq and Syria.6
(vote #551)

Motion to concur in House amendment to
Motion agreed to in
Senate amendment to the bil , which
House
authorizes the appropriation of $5.1 bil ion December 12, 2014
in funding for opposition to the Islamic
89-11
State in Iraq and Syria.
(vote #325)

H.R. 83
Motion to concur in the Senate
Motion agreed to in
Fiscal Year 2015
amendment to the bil with a House
House
Omnibus
amendment that includes funding for
December 11, 2014
Appropriations
operations against the Islamic State as well
219-206
as other counterterrorism operations.
(vote #563)

Motion to concur to the House
amendment to the Senate amendment to
Motion agreed to in
the bil , which includes funding for
House
operations against the Islamic State, as well December 13, 2014
as other counterterrorism operations.
56-40
(vote #354)
114th
H.R. 1735
Among its provisions, bil authorizes $715
Passed in House
mil ion for aid to Iraqi forces fighting ISIL,
May 15, 2015
but requires that 25% of those funds be

6 CRS Report R43788, Defense: FY2015 Authorization and Appropriations, by Pat Towell. See Figure 1. OCO
Funding for Operations in Iraq and Afghanistan in the Notes: “The FY2015 column does not reflect the November 10,
2014, request for an additional $5 billion to combat the Islamic State.”
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U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
National Defense
provided directly to Kurdish Peshmerga
269-151
Authorization Act for
and quasi-independent Sunni forces. Also
(vote #239)
FY 2016
authorizes $600 mil ion for training and
equipping Syrian opposition forces. This
language is not included in final version.

H. Amdt. 479 to
Schiff amendment would prohibit use of
Rejected in Committee
H.R. 2685
funds for Operation Inherent Resolve
of the Whole
Department of
against the Islamic State in absence of a law June 11, 2015
Defense
authorizing use of military force against the 196-231
Appropriations Act,
Islamic State after March 31, 2016.
2016
(vote #346)
114th
H. Amdt. 482 to
Lee amendment would prohibit
Rejected in Committee
H.R. 2685
expenditure or obligation of funds under
of the Whole
Department of
the 2001 Authorization for Use of Military
June 11, 2015
Defense
Force after December 31, 2015.
157-270
Appropriations Act,
2016
(vote #347)

H. Amdt. 484 to
Lee amendment would bar use of funds
Rejected in Committee
H.R. 2685
pursuant to the Iraq Authorization for Use of the Whole
Department of
of Military Force of 2002.
June 11, 2015
Defense
165-264
Appropriations Act,
2016
(vote #348)

H. Amdt. 1033 to
Lee amendment to repeal the 2001
Rejected in Committee
H.R. 4909
Authorization for Use of Military Force 90
of the Whole
National Defense
days after enactment of this Act.
May 18, 2016
Authorization Act for
138-285
FY 2017
(vote #210)

H. Amdt. 1215 to
McGovern amendment would bar funds
Rejected in Committee
H.R. 5293
for operations of U.S. Armed Forces in
of the Whole
Department of
Iraq or Syria until enactment of an
June 16, 2016
Defense
authorization for the use of military force
135-285
Appropriations Act,
for such operations.
2017
(vote #329)

H. Amdt. 1216 to
Lee amendment to require a specific
Rejected in Committee
H.R. 5293
Authorization for Use of Military Force for of the Whole
Department of
anti-ISIL operations by April 30, 2017.
June 16, 2016
Defense
146-274
Appropriations Act,
2017
(vote #330)

H.Amdt. 1214 to
Gabbard amendment to prohibit use of
Failed to pass in House
H.R.5293
funds for the Syria Train and Equip
June 16, 2016
Department of
Program.
135-283
Defense
Appropriations Act
(vote #328)
for FY 2017
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U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Hostilities in Yemen
Beginning in March 2015, Saudi Arabia and a coalition of partner countries (including the United
Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Kuwait, Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, Senegal, and Sudan) engaged in
conflict in Yemen against the Ansar Allah/Houthi movement and followers of the late president of
Yemen, Ali Abdullah Saleh. The United States has been providing logistical and intelligence
support, for a time including air-to-air refueling. Refueling operations ended in early November
2018.7 Civilian casualties in the conflict have been a matter of concern and congressional debate,
along with humanitarian conditions in general in Yemen.
Related CRS Products
CRS Report R43960, Yemen: Civil War and Regional Intervention, by Jeremy M. Sharp.
.
Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
115th
S.J.Res. 54
Motion to table a motion to discharge
Motion to table agreed
Removal of U.S. forces Senate Foreign Relations Committee from
to in Senate
from hostilities in
further consideration of the resolution
March 20, 2018
Yemen not authorized
55-44
by Congress

(vote #58)

Motion to discharge Senate Foreign
Motion to discharge
Relations Committee from further
agreed to in Senate
consideration of the resolution
November 28, 2018
63-37
(vote #250)

Motion to proceed to consideration of
Agreed to in Senate
S.J.Res. 54
December 12, 2018

60-39
(vote #261)

Point of order that amendments offered
Well taken in Senate
under 50 U.S.C. 1546a be germane to the
December 12, 2018
underlying joint resolution to which they
are offered.
96-3
(vote #262)

S.Amdt. 4080 to
Young amendment to clarify that this
Agreed to in Senate
S.J.Res. 54
resolution prohibits U.S. Armed Forces
December 13, 2018
from refueling non-United States aircraft
conducting missions as part of the ongoing
58-41
civil war in Yemen.
(vote #263)

S.Amdt. 4096 to
Cornyn amendment to provide that
Agreed to in Senate
S.J.Res. 54
nothing in the joint resolution shall be
December 13, 2018
construed to influence or disrupt any
99-0
military operations and cooperation with
Israel.
(vote #264)
115th
S.Amdt. 4098 to
Cotton amendment to clarify that the
Not agreed to in Senate
S.J.Res. 54
requirement to remove U.S. Armed Forces

7 “Trump Administration to end refueling of Saudi-coalition aircraft in Yemen conflict,” Washington Post, November
10, 2018.
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U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
does not apply to forces engaged in
December 13, 2018
operations to support efforts to disrupt
45-54
Houthi attacks against locations outside of
Yemen, such as ballistic missile attacks,
(vote #265)
unmanned aerial vehicle attacks, maritime
attacks against United States or
international vessels, or terrorist attacks
against civilian targets.

S.Amdt. 4090 to
Cornyn amendment to require a report
Agreed to in Senate by
S.J.Res. 54
assessing risks posed by ceasing support
voice vote
operations with respect to the conflict
December 13, 2018
between the Saudi-led coalition and the
Houthis in Yemen.

S.Amdt. 4095 to
Cornyn amendment to require a report
Agreed to in Senate by
S.J.Res. 54
assessing the increased risk of terrorist
voice vote
attacks in the United States if the
December 13, 2018
Government of Saudi Arabia were to cease
Yemen-related intelligence sharing with the
United States.

S.Amdt. 4097 to
Cotton amendment to clarify that the
Request for unanimous
S.J.Res. 54
requirement to remove United States
consent not agreed to
Armed Forces does not apply to the
by voice vote
provision of materials and advice intended
December 13, 2018
to reduce civilian casualties or further
enable adherence to the Law of Armed
Conflict.

S.J.Res. 54, as
A joint resolution to direct the removal of
Passed in Senate with
Amended
U.S. Armed Forces from hostilities in the
amendments
Republic of Yemen that have not been
December 13, 2018
authorized by Congress.8
56-41
(vote #266)

H.Con.Res. 81
Col ins asked for unanimous consent that
House agreed without
the provisions of §7 of the War Powers
objection
Resolution (50 U.S.C. 1546) shall apply to
November 11, 2017
H.Con.Res. 81 not earlier than
November 2, 2017, but on the same terms
that would have adhered on October 13,
2017. Agreed to without objection.

H.Res. 599
Denounces the conduct of activities in
Agreed to in House
Yemen and areas affected by the conflict
November 13, 2017
that are inconsistent with the laws of
armed conflict, including the deliberate
366 - 30
targeting of civilian populations or the use
(vote #623)
of civilian human shields, inter alia.

H.Res. 1176
Providing for consideration of the
Agreed to in House
conference report to accompany the bil
December 12, 2018
(H.R. 2) to provide for the reform and
continuation of agricultural and other
206 - 203
programs of the Department of
(vote #432)

8 "Key Senate and House Votes in 2018," CQ Almanac 2018, Washington, DC: CQ-Roll Call, Inc., 2019, at
http://library.cqpress.com/cqalmanac/cqal18-2028-110984-2932253. See section on Senate Vote 266 Yemen.
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U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Congress
Bill and Title
Description and Comments
Votes
Agriculture through fiscal year 2023, and

for other purposes.

House considered this rule with provision
On ordering the
in §2 stating “The provisions of section 7
previous question
of the War Powers Resolution (50 U.S.C.
Agreed to in House
1546) shall not apply during the remainder
of the One Hundred Fifteenth Congress to December 12, 2018
a concurrent resolution introduced
220 - 191
pursuant to §5 of the War Powers
(vote #431)
Resolution (50 U.S.C. 1544) with respect

to the Republic of Yemen.”9
Sources Consulted
CRS In Focus IF10539, Defense Primer: Legal Authorities for the Use of Military Forces, by
Jennifer K. Elsea.
CRS Report R41989, Congressional Authority to Limit Military Operations, by Jennifer K. Elsea,
Michael John Garcia, and Thomas J. Nicola.
CRS Report R42699, The War Powers Resolution: Concepts and Practice, by Matthew C. Weed.
CRS Report R42738, Instances of Use of United States Armed Forces Abroad, 1798-2022, by
Barbara Salazar Torreon and Sofia Plagakis.
CRS Report RL32492, American War and Military Operations Casualties: Lists and Statistics, by
David A. Blum.
CRS Report RL31133, Declarations of War and Authorizations for the Use of Military Force:
Historical Background and Legal Implications, by Jennifer K. Elsea and Matthew C. Weed.
CRS Report RS21405, U.S. Periods of War and Dates of Recent Conflicts, by Barbara Salazar
Torreon and Carly A. Miller.
Congress.gov at http://www.congress.gov/.
Congressional Quarterly searchable online floor vote database at http://www.cq.com.
Congressional Quarterly Almanac. Washington, CQ Press. Annual.
CQ Weekly. Washington, CQ Press. Various issues.

Author Information

Barbara Salazar Torreon
Carla Y. Davis-Castro
Senior Research Librarian
Senior Research Librarian

9 Ibid. See section on House Vote 432 Yemen Resolution.
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U.S. Armed Forces Abroad: Selected Congressional Votes Since 1982

Disclaimer
This document was prepared by the Congressional Research Service (CRS). CRS serves as nonpartisan
shared staff to congressional committees and Members of Congress. It operates solely at the behest of and
under the direction of Congress. Information in a CRS Report should not be relied upon for purposes other
than public understanding of information that has been provided by CRS to Members of Congress in
connection with CRS’s institutional role. CRS Reports, as a work of the United States Government, are not
subject to copyright protection in the United States. Any CRS Report may be reproduced and distributed in
its entirety without permission from CRS. However, as a CRS Report may include copyrighted images or
material from a third party, you may need to obtain the permission of the copyright holder if you wish to
copy or otherwise use copyrighted material.

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