Summary of SRES 88: National Speech and Debate Education Day

Bill Number: SRES 88

Introduced: February 21, 2025

Status: Introduced in Senate

Classification: Resolution

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of SRES 88 is to designate March 7, 2025, as National Speech and Debate Education Day. This resolution aims to recognize the importance of speech and debate education in fostering critical thinking, effective communication, and civic engagement among students.

Key Provisions

The resolution includes the following key provisions:

1. Designation of National Day: The Senate officially designates March 7, 2025, as National Speech and Debate Education Day.
2. Affirmation of Purpose: The resolution strongly affirms the significance of this day in promoting the values associated with speech and debate education.
3. Encouragement for Participation: It encourages educational institutions, businesses, community and civic associations, and all citizens of the United States to celebrate and promote National Speech and Debate Education Day.

Affected Parties

The resolution is expected to impact various stakeholders, including:

• Educational Institutions: Schools and universities are encouraged to engage in activities that promote speech and debate education.
• Students: The resolution highlights the benefits of participating in speech and debate, which can enhance students' communication skills and confidence.
• Community Organizations: Local civic groups and businesses are invited to support and participate in events related to this day.

Legislative Actions

• February 21, 2025: The resolution was submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent.
• The text of the resolution was recorded in the Congressional Record (CR S1303; text: CR S1136).

Sponsors

The resolution is sponsored by a bipartisan group of senators, including:

• Primary Sponsor: Chuck Grassley
• Cosponsors: Amy Klobuchar, Angus S. King, Raphael Warnock, Cindy Hyde-Smith, Rick Scott, Elizabeth A. Warren, James Lankford, Ted Budd, Steve Daines, Christopher A. Coons, Katie Britt, Richard J. Durbin, John Barrasso, Mike Crapo, Jeff Merkley, Kevin Cramer, Maggie Hassan, James E. Risch, Marsha Blackburn.

Related Legislation

SRES 88 has a companion resolution in the House, identified as HRES 99.

This resolution serves as a formal acknowledgment of the value of speech and debate education and aims to inspire collective action to promote these essential skills across the nation.