Congress performs it’s functions Lesson 22

Lesson Objectives Describe the role of rules, committees and political parties in the organization and operation of Congress. You should be able to describe the process through which proposed legislation becomes law. You should be able to identify the primary sources on which members of Congress rely for information in the lawmaking process and to explain the importance of Congress’s inherent power to investigate. You should also be able to explain why compromise is required in the deliberative process. Take, evaluate and defend positions on how Congress functions and whether it should streamline it’s procedures.

How do committees and rules help Congress do it’s work? Standing – permanent Ad hoc Committee assignment shape the careers of representatives and senators. Make on site visits Conduct personal investigations

Rules House rules, specify the size of committees. Specify jurisdiction of committees. Specify which bills will be handled by each committee House limits number limits on those who are allowed on committees as well as term limits for chairmen Important bills may require special rules for debate Senate rules are informal Senators more independent – originally ambassadors from their states. Filibuster – Refusal to yield to prevent a vote Cloture rule – limit debate –bring about vote

Political Parties Encourage members to adhere to party policies and platforms Party control traditionally stronger in House, than Senate Seniority – determines positions Length of service Party loyalty Committee chairs – two year terms

Who leads the House and Senate Speaker of the House -- Most powerful office in Congress Controls committee appointments Chairs the Rules Committee aka Traffic Cop of the House Decides what bills will come to the floor and the rules of debate Decentralized committee leadership Occasionally members will rebel under a strong leader Place power in the hands of committee chairmen Political Party Control Strong speaker who represents the majority party, rather than the House as a whole

Senate Control Led by the Vice President Can only cast votes during a tie In his/her absence President Pro Tempore runs the Senate Less formal than House

What roles do majority rule and compromise plain in deliberations Enacting laws is complicated Bills Resolutions – express sentiments or address procedural rules Joint Resolution – introduced in both chambers at the same time If signed, has the force of law Concurrent Resolution – expresses sentiment, but does not have the power of law

I’m Just a Bill Can begin in either house – except revenue bills – they must originate in the House. SB or HB and Numbered Committee Assignment Could be referred to a subcommittee Once assigned – committee holds hearings Deliberation Mark up sessions – members review the bill and modify if necessary – recommend the bill for “Do Pass” Subcommittees refer the bills back to the committee Bills can be amended Report Favorable report – sent to full chamber in either original form or with amendments

I’m Just a Bill Floor Vote –Placed on the calendar for vote by the full house Referral to the other chamber Conference Committee – ensure they are exact form. Referral to the President for signature or veto Pocket Veto – President does not sign within 10 days – Congress Adjourns – Bills dies

Where do members of congress get ideas for legislation and information? Executive Branch: State of the Union Executive Departments and agencies Constituents Interest Groups Lobbyists Well-informed Knowledgeable Organized Cooperative