1. Powers of Congress

2. Necessary and Proper clause enables Congress to expand its power
Conflicting interpretations…loose vs strict constructionist
Powers are limited by the Bill of Rights and the Constitution

3. Legislative Power to levy and appropriate money (power of the purse)
Revenue bills (raising money, start in House then go to Senate)
Appropriations bills (laws that authorize spending money)
Power to borrow and coin money
Regulate foreign and interstate commerce (used to end discrimination in places of business)
Powers in foreign policy and national defense (approve treaties, declare war, maintain an army and navy)
Naturalization of citizens and admission of new states
Copyrights, patents
Establish federal courts and post office

4. Nonlegislative
House chooses president when no majority of electoral college votes is won
Senate chooses vice president when no majority of electoral college votes is won
Settle problems that arise from death of a candidate or the president’s incapacity
Power of impeachment
Senate approves presidential appointments
Senate ratifies treaties made by President
Ratification of amendments

5. Powers to Investigate
Standing or select committees investigate the conduct and ethics of government officials and members of Congress
Consequences range from proposing new legislation to removing officials from office
Collect evidence, subpoena witnesses, grant witness immunity, witnesses can be prosecuted for perjury…not trials

6. Legislative Oversight
Used to weigh how well the executive branch carries out the laws enacted by Congress
Used to require executive agencies to submit reports on their activities and to review their budgets (GAO)