Congressional Powers and the Legislative Process

Vocabulary flashcards covering congressional powers, the power of the purse, Senate-specific functions, and the federal budget process for AP US Government and Politics.

Necessary and Proper Clause

Also known as the Elastic Clause; it provides "authorization" for a wide range of federal policies and laws.

Interstate Commerce Clause

The power granted to Congress to regulate interstate trade, giving the federal government a broad claim of authority over the states.

Power of the Purse

Arguably the most important power of Congress, encompassing the ability to tax, spend, and borrow money.

Taxation

Within the power of the purse, the ability of Congress to take money, through coercion, from targeted groups.

Spending

Within the power of the purse, the ability of Congress to "buy-off" important groups by funding pet projects, research, and jobs.

Borrowing

Within the power of the purse, the ability to fund government spending without "taking" directly from the citizenry.

Advice and Consent

A Senate-only power that requires the Senate to approve treaties, executive branch appointments, federal judiciary appointments, and Supreme Court Justices.

Congressional Budget Office (CBO)

A department made up of federal employees that evaluates and assesses the federal budget for Congress.

Office of Management and Budget (OMB)

A department made up of federal employees that evaluates and assesses the federal budget for the President and executive branch.

House of Representatives (Impeachment/Oversight Role)

The body of Congress that serves as the investigative arm during oversight and impeachment of federal employees.

Senate (Impeachment/Oversight Role)

The body of Congress that acts as judge and jury during oversight and impeachment of federal employees.

Article 1, Section 9

The constitutional provision stating that no federal funds can be disbursed (spent) without a law authorizing the expense.