Legislative Process
What are the two chambers of Congress?
The House of Representatives and the Senate
What is the purpose of congressional committees?
To review bills, hold hearings, and make recommendations before a vote by the full chamber
Who is the CURRENT Speaker of the House?
Mike Johnson
What is a bill?
A proposed law
How does public opinion influence Congress?
Lawmakers consider public views to maintain voter support and reelection chances
What is the first step in the legislative process?
A bill is introduced by a member of Congress
What is a conference committee?
A temporary committee made up of House and Senate members to resolve differences in a bill
Currently, who is the Senate Majority Leader?
Chuck Schumer
What is a veto?
When the president rejects a bill passed by Congress
What role do lobbyists play in lawmaking?
They advocate for policies on behalf of interest groups and businesses
What happens to a bill after it is introduced?
It is sent to a committee for review and discussion
Why are committees powerful in the legislative process?
They control which bills move forward and can shape the details of legislation
Currently, what is the majority party in the Senate?
Democratic
What is the system that ensures that no one branch of government gains too much power by allowing each branch to limit the others?
Checks and Balances
What is one example that we talked about of a bill that faced strong public debate?
Freedom to Carry NC Bill
What is a filibuster (Hint: Phonebook)
A tactic used in the Senate to delay or block voting on a bill by speaking nonsense and extending debate
What committee would review a bill about school restroom quality?
The Education and/or Health Committee
How do party divisions affect passing laws in the 119th Congress?
The majority party controls the legislative agenda and committee leadership
What does "bicameral" mean?
A two-house legislature
How does media coverage impact legislative decisions?
It can sway public opinion and pressure lawmakers to act
How can Congress override a presidential veto?
With a two-thirds vote in both the House and Senate
How do committee hearings shape public perception and policy outcomes?
They allow experts and stakeholders to present arguments, influencing legislative decisions
What is one major issue currently being debated in Congress that we talked about?
Budget Plan for Tax cuts
These first ten amendments protect individual rights from government overreach.
Bill of Rights
What happens if the House and Senate pass different versions of a bill?
A conference committee negotiates a final version for both chambers to vote on