the War Powers Act directs the president to consult Congress deploying U.S. armed forces in hostilities. it provides an initial 60-day period unless Congress declares war, with extensions and withdrawal needing ongoing congressional involvement and possible steps to remove troops. was created to curb executive war-making following Vietnam, but disputes remain about effectiveness and constitutional balance of powers. It also allows a possible 30-day extension to withdraw if safety concerns develop, and it has drawn attention to ongoing discussion and legislative proposals with efforts to clarify or reform the procedures.