A resolution honoring the life of the Honorable Alan K. Simpson, former Senator for the State of Wyoming.
Summary
S. Res. 148 is a Senate resolution honoring the life and public service of the Honorable Alan K. Simpson, former U.S. Senator from Wyoming. The resolution recounts his upbringing in Cody, Wyoming; his education at the University of Wyoming; his military service in the U.S. Army; and his legal career before entering elected office. It also highlights his long record of service in the Wyoming House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate, including leadership roles as Senate Majority Whip and Minority Whip and chairmanship of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.
The resolution emphasizes Simpson’s policy interests and legacy, including border security, immigration, veterans’ issues, entitlement reform, and federal fiscal responsibility. It also notes his role as co-chair of the National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform, his receipt of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, and his support for Wyoming institutions such as the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, the Heart Mountain Wyoming Foundation, and the University of Wyoming. The operative language expresses the Senate’s sorrow at his death, directs the resolution to be communicated to the House and his family, and provides for adjournment as a mark of respect.
Impact
This resolution does not change state or federal law and has no regulatory or budgetary effect. Its legal impact is limited to formal Senate recognition of Simpson’s death, transmission of the resolution to the House and his family, and an adjournment of the Senate in his honor. The measure primarily affects Senate records and ceremonial proceedings rather than any statute, agency, or private party.
Sentiment
The sentiment around the resolution is overwhelmingly positive and respectful. It was introduced with broad bipartisan support from a large group of senators across party lines and was considered and agreed to without recorded opposition. The text itself reflects admiration for Simpson’s service, character, and contributions to Wyoming and the nation, and the Senate’s action signals a shared desire to honor his memory.
Contention
There is little to no apparent contention in the available record. Because this is a commemorative resolution, the discussion and vote history show no committee debate, amendments, or dissenting votes. The only substantive content is the praise of Simpson’s career and the ceremonial request that the Senate adjourn in his honor, so any disagreement would likely have been absent or minimal.