Practicing Texas Politics: The Legislative Branch

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the Texas legislative branch, including structure, sessions, redistricting, and roles within the legislature.

Bicameral

A legislative body with two chambers, specifically the Texas House of Representatives and the Texas Senate.

Regular session

A meeting of the Texas legislature that begins on the second Tuesday in January of odd-numbered years, lasting a maximum of 140 days.

Special session

A session called by the governor that lasts a maximum of 30 days.

Redistricting

The process of redrawing the boundaries of electoral districts to ensure equitable representation.

Gerrymandering

Manipulating electoral district boundaries to favor one political party over another.

Reynolds v. Sims (1964)

A Supreme Court case that established that legislative districts must be apportioned on a population basis.

Lieutenant Governor

The President of the Senate and the most powerful elected official in Texas, plays a leading role in legislative matters.

Speaker of the House

The presiding officer of the Texas House, elected by members to control House proceedings.

Committee system

A structure in the legislature where committees are formed to consider and recommend legislation.

Legislative caucus

An organization of legislators that seeks to maximize their influence on specific issues based on common interests.