The War Powers Act and National Security

The War Powers Act of 1973 establishes certain limitations on the President before and after a commitment of U.S. Armed Forces abroad. The thesis begins by examining the constitutional, historical, and political bases for this major piece of legislation. Following this necessary framework, an analysis is made of each of the Act's important sections for their constitutionality and practicability. The conclusion is drawn, after considering the other current congressional limitations on the President and the prevailing public mood, that the War Powers Act may ultimately have a detrimental effect on U.S. national security.