Legistlative Branch Flashcards
What are some similarities that the Senate and House of Representatives have?
Members are voted by US citizens,
Passing legislation requires both chambers’ approval
When are members of each chamber reelected?
House - Every two years
Senate - Every six years
What requirements must you have to be a member of each chamber?
House - 25 y.o., 7+ years as a US citizen
Senate - 30 y.o., 9+ years as a US citizen
What do members of each chamber represent?
House - Each representative represents an individual district (# of districts in a state is based on state’s population)
Senate - Each senator represents a whole state
How many members are in each chamber?
House - 435 representatives (one for each district)
Senate - 100 senators (2 for each state)
How do the House and Senate differ in the way they conduct business?
House follows procedures closely and limits debate
Senate has unlimited debate and all members have the opportunity to influence legislation, 1/3 of senators are voted every 2 years
What is some other major differences in the House and Senate?
House elects a speaker to be their leader of the house (speaker is in charge of the calendar)
Senate elects majority and minority leaders
Bill’s Journey (Steps 1-3)
- A bill is drafted by any member of congress
- Bill is introduced in either chamber
- Bill is sent to a qualified committee to handle it
Bill’s Journey (Steps 4-9)
- Subcommittees are organized to handle certain topics
- Committee meets to mark up bill then bill is sent to congress
- Bill is passed or defeated by a chamber
- Bill is sent to another chamber to debate
- If bill is approved then Bill is sent to president to approve/veto
- Veto can be overridden with 2/3 majority vote
