joint resolution

American  

noun

1. a resolution adopted by both branches of a bicameral legislative assembly and requiring the signature of the chief executive to become law.

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joint resolution British  

noun

1. a resolution passed by both houses of a bicameral legislature, signed by the chief executive and legally binding

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joint resolution Cultural  

1. A measure approved by both houses of the United States Congress and signed by the president. Similar to an act of Congress, the joint resolution is used to approve or initiate foreign policy actions, to grant a single appropriations proposal, and to propose amendments to the Constitution.

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Etymology

Origin of joint resolution

An Americanism dating back to 1830–40

Example Sentences

The joint resolution that the House and Senate passed the previous week had, by nature, no binding effect.

From Slate • Jun. 29, 2026

It wasn’t until 1941, however, that the holiday’s date was codified in law, when Franklin Roosevelt signed a joint resolution of Congress mandating its celebration on the fourth Thursday of November.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 25, 2025

It can only be lifted by another joint resolution.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 8, 2024

Congress had followed with a joint resolution nullifying all gold clauses.

From Los Angeles Times • May 15, 2023

It was only on the 1st of March, 1845, that Congress passed a joint resolution for the annexation.

From Peace with Mexico by Gallatin, Albert