The Functions Of Congress

What are the three key functions of Congress?

Legislation, representation and oversight

What is a Caucus in Congress?

a group of US Congress members meeting to pursue common legislative objectives

What are Lobbyists?

professional advocates paid to influence government policy, legislation, and regulations on behalf of special interest groups, corporations, or organizations.

what are Incumbency rates?

A measure for the percentage of current officeholders who successfully win re-election when they run for another term. In congress this exceeds 90%

What is the first stage of Congressional Legislation?

A bill is Drafted by a member of Congress, the Administration or others. And introduced to either the House or Senate

What is the Second stage?

The Committee Stage

• The bill is referred to a committee where hearings and amendments occur.

What is the Third Stage?

Floor Debate and Voting

• In the Senate, senators may use the filibuster to try and stall legislation

What is the Fourth Stage?

Bicameral Agreement

• Both chambers must pass a version of the bill

• A conference committee may resolve differences between versions

What is the last stage?

Presidential Consideration

• The president must sign the bill, veto it, or leave it unsigned for ten days (after which it automatically becomes law unless the congressional session ends)

• If vetoed, congress can override the veto with a two-thirds majority in both houses.