Legislative Branch Of Government: Congress

Question 1

Congress

Answer 1

• Based in Capitol
• Legislative branch of US government
• Makes federal laws
• Separation of powers makes it independent
• Bicameral, Senate + HOR

Question 2

Structure of Congress

Answer 2

Upper chamber of Congress
- 100 members, 2 senators per state
- 6 yr term

Lower chamber of Congress
- 435 members, # of congressman based on states population
- 2 year term

Question 3

Connecticut Compromise

Answer 3

• Seats in HOR determined based on population size of each state
• Each state received 2 senators regardless its size

Question 4

Roles of Congress

Answer 4

• Passing Legislation
  Congress has powers to make federal laws
• Representing People
  Congress has to represent the interest of their constituents
• Overseeing the executive
  Congress has powers to scrutinize and check the actions of president and federal government

Question 5

Powers of Congress

Answer 5

• Legislative Powers
  Congress initiates a bill both houses must approve, sent to president for approval.
• Override Presidential veto
  If president veto’s congress can decide what to do. Can override if 2/3 in each house.
• Initiate amendments to Constitution
  2/3 majority in each house. Once passes in congress sent to states for approval.
• Declaring War
  Both houses must vote
• Congressional Oversight
  Congress must approve federal budget

Question 6

Legislative Process in Congress

Answer 6

Introduction
- A formality: no debate; no vote
Committee stage
- Conducted in standing committee
Timetabling
- By unanimous consent agreement
Floor debate and vote on passage
Conference committee
- if required: to reconcile the differences between House and Senate versions of the bill
Presidential action
- Sign, ‘leave on desk’ or veto; possibly pocket veto