SCONRES 3119th CongressIntroduced

A concurrent resolution authorizing the use of the rotunda of the Capitol for the lying in state of the remains of the late James Earl Carter, Jr., 39th President of the United States.

Introduced: Jan 3, 2025

Standard Summary

Comprehensive overview in 1-2 paragraphs

This concurrent resolution authorizes the lying in state of former President James Earl Carter, Jr. in the Rotunda of the Capitol from January 7 to January 9, 2025. It directs the Architect of the Capitol, under the leadership of the Senate Majority Leader and the Speaker of the House, to take all necessary steps to carry out the arrangement and to move the catafalque (the ceremonial platform that supports a coffin) from the Capitol Visitor Center’s Exhibition Hall to the Rotunda for use during the ceremony. The measure is a ceremonial, authorizing action by Congress and does not enact new policy or appropriations beyond directing logistical steps for this event.

Key Points

1The remains of James Earl Carter, Jr., the 39th President, may lie in state in the Capitol Rotunda from January 7–9, 2025.
2The Architect of the Capitol is responsible for organizing and facilitating the lying-in-state arrangements, with oversight by the Senate Majority Leader and the Speaker of the House.
3The catafalque currently in the Capitol Visitor Center’s Exhibition Hall must be transferred to the Rotunda to support the lying-in-state ceremony.
4The resolution is a concurrent resolution, meaning it is approved by both chambers but is ceremonial in nature and does not require the President’s signature or create new law or funding by itself.
5The dates and duties are laid out to coordinate ceremonial, security, and logistical arrangements for the event.

Impact Areas

Primary affected group/area: Members of the public who may wish to pay respects, and the Carter family and Washington ceremonial staff involved in organizing the event.Secondary affected group/area: Capitol security (Capitol Police), Capitol Renovation/Architect of the Capitol staff, and congressional leadership (Senate Majority Leader and House Speaker) responsible for oversight.Additional impacts: Operational implications for Capitol scheduling and security during the event window, potential short-term adjustments to visitor access and tours, and logistical costs associated with moving and installing the catafalque and supporting ceremonial activities.

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