Legislative branch

Bill Introduction

A process where a bill can start in either the House or Senate, introduced by a member.

Committee

A small group in Congress that studies, debates, and revises bills before they reach the floor for a vote.

Pigeonhole

When a committee ignores or sets aside a bill so it never reaches the floor; the bill ‘dies in committee.'

Standing Committee

A permanent committee that handles bills on a specific topic, such as Education or Defense.

Select Committee

A temporary committee created for a specific purpose, like investigating scandals.

Cloture

The Senate vote (3/5 or 60 members) to end a filibuster and proceed to voting.

Filibuster

A tactic in the Senate where a senator talks endlessly to delay or block a vote on a bill.

Rider

An unrelated amendment attached to a bill, often added to a bill likely to pass.

Veto

The President's power to reject a bill passed by Congress.

Pocket Veto

When the President ignores a bill for 10 days while Congress is not in session, resulting in the bill dying.

Automatic Law

If the President takes no action for 10 days while Congress is in session, the bill automatically becomes law.

Majority Leader

The party leader who organizes their party's legislative agenda in the House or Senate.

Speaker of the House

The most powerful person in the House, controlling debate and committee assignments.

Franking Privilege

Allows members of Congress to send mail to constituents for free using their signatures.

Conference Committee

A temporary joint committee that resolves differences between the House and Senate versions of a bill.