The War Powers Act of 1973 was an attempt by Congress to increase its authority over the use of military force. The provisions of this act include the following. The President must report to Congress within 48 hours after sending troops to an area where hostilities are imminent. Within 60 days after troops are sent, Congress must, by declaration of war or other specific statutory authorization, provide for the continuation of the United States military presence.If Congress fails to provide such authorization, the President must withdraw the troops. If Congress passes a concurrent resolution (which the President may not veto) directing the removal of United States troops, the President must comply.
Congress has found it difficult to try to use the War Powers Act to force Presidents to remove troops from combat situations because:
