1. Unit 3: The Legislative Branch
Limits on Congressional Power

2. Limits on Congressional Power
Main Idea: Introduction to Limits on Congressional Power
Notes:
While the Legislative Branch was designed to be the most influential Branch of Government, it is not “all powerful” and there are strategic Constitutional limitations on its power.

3. Limits on Congressional Power
Main Idea: Separation of Powers
Notes:
To ensure that no one branch becomes too powerful, power is divided evenly among the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Branches.
This means that no branch can do it alone (including the Legislative Branch).

4. Limits on Congressional Power
Main Idea: Separation of Powers (cont’d.)
Notes:
The Legislative Branch has law creation powers, but a law is not officially a law, until it is signed by the President.
Additionally, it is the Executive Branch that enforces the law.
Further, the Judicial Branch interprets the law ensuring its Constitutionality.

5. Limits on Congressional Power
Main Idea: Checks and Balances
Notes:
Each branch has powers to check the other branches to help ensure no branch becomes too powerful.
Examples of Checks and Balances on the Legislative Branch include:
Veto/Line-Item Veto (Executive Branch)
Supreme Court may declare a law unconstitutional (Judicial Branch)

6. Limits on Congressional Power
Main Idea: Constitutional Limitations
Notes:
The Constitution sets limits on Congress so that it may not pass laws that oppress: states, individuals, or their God-given rights.
This means that no laws may be passed/created that threaten these things.