Congressional Committees-legislative process of Congress

This set of flashcards reviews key terms and concepts about the organization of Congress, types of committees, the legislative process, and the roles of major players.

Congress

The national legislative body of the United States, composed of the House of Representatives and the Senate.

Majority Party

The political party that has more members in a legislative body, possessing greater power and influence.

Minority Party

The political party that has fewer members in a legislative body, holding less power and influence.

Committee Placement

The process through which members of Congress are assigned to committees, which can be highly political and influence legislative outcomes.

Standing Committee

A permanent committee in Congress that has the authority to propose and vote on legislation.

Conference Committee

A special joint committee formed to resolve differences between the House and Senate versions of a bill.

Filibuster

A legislative tactic used in the Senate to delay or block a vote on a bill by extending debate.

Earmark

A provision in legislation that allocates funds for specific projects or programs, often criticized for promoting unnecessary spending.

Veto

The power of the president to reject a bill passed by Congress, preventing it from becoming law.

Pocket Veto

A method by which the president can effectively veto a bill by taking no action on it for ten days while Congress is adjourned.

Legislation

Proposed laws presented for debate and approval in Congress.

Rules Committee

A committee in the House of Representatives that sets the rules for debate on a bill, including time limits and amendment procedures.

Presidential Signing Statement

A written pronouncement issued by the President when signing a bill into law, often outlining their interpretation or intent regarding the law.

Logrolling

The practice of exchanging favors, especially in politics by reciprocal voting for each other's proposed legislation.

Subcommittee

A smaller, specialized committee formed within a larger committee in Congress, focusing on specific areas of legislation.