War Powers Resolution — limits on executive military action
The War Powers Resolution of 1973 requires the President to notify Congress within 48 hours of introducing forces into hostilities and limits deployments to 60 days (with a 30-day withdrawal extension) without an explicit Congressional authorization. Privileged resolutions under WPR can force withdrawal by simple majority without 60-vote cloture.
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Step 1 — Forces introduced
The President orders U.S. troops into hostilities (or imminent hostilities) and notifies Congress within 48 hours.
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Step 2 — 60-day clock
Without explicit authorization (a Declaration of War or Authorization for Use of Military Force), the President must withdraw forces within 60 days, plus 30 more if needed for safe withdrawal.
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Step 3 — WPR privileged resolution
A senator can introduce a privileged resolution under §5(c) directing withdrawal. These resolutions bypass the filibuster — simple-majority vote in both chambers can force withdrawal.
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Practical limits
Presidents have routinely disputed WPR enforceability. Most contemporary uses are political signaling rather than binding limits — but a successful WPR resolution does land on the President's desk and would force a public veto if the President wants the deployment to continue.