Joint Resolution

Definition
A Joint Resolution is

"[a] form of legislation (designated with S.J. Res. or H.J. Res.) that is either:


 * (1) A congressional action typically used in dealing with matters such as a single appropriation for a specific purpose, increasing the statutory limit on the public debt, or continuing appropriations. There is no real difference between a bill and a joint resolution; both require a majority vote and become law in the same manner, that is, by bicameral enactment and signature of the President.
 * (2) A congressional action used to propose amendments to the Constitution. Adoption of a joint resolution to propose a constitutional amendment requires a two- thirds majority vote by both the Senate and the House and is not presented to the President for approval. A proposed amendment becomes effective only when ratified by three-fourths of the states."