PlainBillCongress, translated.Legislation. Context. Public interest.Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S5461; text as passed Senate: CR S5436)
Congressional Research Service
Version 82 · Passed Senate without amendment · Sep 9, 2014
(This measure has not been amended since it was introduced. The summary of that version is repeated here.)
Condemns the terrorist acts of the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), including the barbaric murders of James Foley and Steven Sotloff.
Mourns the deaths of James Foley and Steven Sotloff and expresses the Senate's condolences to their families.
Salutes James Foley and Steven Sotloff for their courageous pursuit of journalistic excellence under the most dangerous of conditions.
Supports efforts to bring to justice those responsible for the murders of James Foley and Steven Sotloff.
Demands the release of all hostages being held by ISIL.
Calls on the United States and the international community, working in partnership with the governments and citizens of the Middle East, to address the ISIL threat.
States that nothing in this resolution shall be construed as a declaration of war or authorization to use force.
People & committees
Sen. Shaheen, Jeanne [D-NH] · D–NH
Legislative record
A procedural vote is different from passage. Passage in one chamber does not establish enactment. Explore the glossary.
Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S5461; text as passed Senate: CR S5436)
Passed/agreed to in Senate: Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent.(consideration: CR S5461; text as passed Senate: CR S5436)
Introduced in Senate
Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR S5363)
Primary sources
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Source last updated: Dec 3, 2025. Consult Congress.gov for the current record.
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Analyze S.Res.538 as objectively as possible. Explain its main provisions, who would be affected, possible benefits and harms, implementation, exceptions, and uncertainties. Present the strongest arguments for and against it, and identify evidence needed to assess its public impact.
Examine S.Res.538 through a progressive lens, focusing on fairness, access, economic inequality, and effects on vulnerable communities. Explain potential benefits, costs, and unintended consequences. Consider the strongest counterarguments and distinguish stated goals from demonstrated outcomes.
Examine S.Res.538 through a conservative lens, focusing on fiscal responsibility, institutional stability, federalism, and the scope of government. Explain potential benefits, costs, and unintended consequences. Consider the strongest counterarguments and any provisions that challenge this perspective.
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