Summary of SRES 97: A Resolution Honoring the Life of Howard L. Hawks

Overview

SRES 97 is a Senate resolution introduced in the U.S. Senate on February 25, 2025. The measure is ceremonial and non-binding, aimed at memorializing and recognizing the life and contributions of Howard L. Hawks, a Nebraska community leader and philanthropist. The resolution was agreed to by the Senate via Unanimous Consent on the same day.

Purpose and Intent

• To announce the Senate’s sorrow at the death of Howard L. Hawks and to express deep regret.
• To honor Hawks’ life and legacy, highlighting his dedication to Nebraska as a civic leader and philanthropist.
• To memorialize Hawks formally and ensure his family receives an enrolled copy of the resolution.

Key Provisions

The version content of the bill includes three core provisions:
1. The Senate acknowledges with profound sorrow and deep regret the death of Howard L. Hawks.
2. The Senate honors Hawks’ life and legacy for his unwavering dedication to Nebraska as a civic leader and philanthropist.
3. The Secretary of the Senate is respectfully requested to transmit an enrolled copy of the resolution to Hawks’ family.

Legislative History and Sponsorship

• Introduced: February 25, 2025
• Primary Sponsor: Pete Ricketts
• Cosponsor: Deb Fischer
• Actions (2025-02-25): Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent (CR S1358-S1359). The resolution was passed/agreed to in the Senate on the same date, by Unanimous Consent.

Procedural and Timeline Details

• The resolution proceeded through the Senate via Unanimous Consent without amendment.
• It includes a preamble and does not require a House action for it to take effect as a memorialization, though typically such resolutions may be observed and circulated as part of Senate records.
• The text is ceremonial in nature and does not create or fund programs, policies, or fiscal obligations.

Impact and Affected Parties

• Primary beneficiaries: The family of Howard L. Hawks and the Nebraska community that he served.
• Broader impact: Provides formal recognition from the Senate of Hawks’ contributions and offers a lasting memorial suitable for public acknowledgment and press releases.
• Fiscal impact: None anticipated; ceremonial resolution.

Additional Notes

• A memorial resolution like SRES 97 serves to honor a notable individual’s legacy and may reflect the values and priorities of the Nebraska civic and philanthropic community honored by the measure.