What does the War Powers Act require the president to do after sending troops into battle?

The War Powers Act requires the president to inform Congress after sending troops into battle. This legislation, passed in 1973, was designed to ensure that both the executive and legislative branches are involved in decisions that could lead to military conflict. Specifically, the president is required to notify Congress within 48 hours of deploying armed forces into hostilities or situations where imminent involvement in hostilities is clearly indicated. This requirement is aimed at promoting accountability and oversight over military actions, emphasizing the importance of a collaborative approach to such significant decisions in national security matters.

Other options do not align with the provisions of the War Powers Act. The act does not mandate the president to formally declare war, which is a power reserved for Congress. There is also no stipulation within the act regarding a 30-day completion period for a military mission; instead, it allows for the deployment of troops for up to 60 days without congressional approval before a withdrawal is necessary. Lastly, while the president is the commander-in-chief of the armed forces, the act does not require the assumption of command of all military forces in the context of the War Powers Act; rather it requires informing Congress about the situation.