Table of Contents
Congress is the branch of the United States government responsible for making laws. It is composed of two parts: the House of Representatives and the Senate. Together, they work to create laws that affect the country and its citizens.
How Laws Are Proposed
The process begins when a member of Congress introduces a bill. This can happen in either the House or the Senate. The bill is then given a number and assigned to a committee for review.
Review and Voting
The committee examines the bill and may suggest changes. If approved, the bill goes to the full chamber for a vote. If it passes, it moves to the other chamber for consideration.
Final Approval and Presidential Signature
If both chambers approve the bill, it is sent to the President. The President can sign it into law or veto it. If vetoed, Congress can override the veto with a two-thirds vote in both chambers.
Summary of the Lawmaking Process
- Member introduces a bill
- Committee reviews and votes
- Chamber votes on the bill
- Both chambers approve
- President signs or vetoes