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The House of Representatives holds significant legal powers within the United States government. These powers enable the House to play a crucial role in the legislative process, oversight, and checks and balances. Understanding these powers helps clarify how the government functions and how laws are made and enforced.
Legislative Powers
The primary power of the House is to create and pass federal legislation. All bills related to revenue, such as taxes and government spending, must originate in the House. Once a bill is approved by the House, it moves to the Senate for further consideration. The House also has the authority to amend or reject proposed laws.
Impeachment Authority
The House has the exclusive power to impeach federal officials, including the President. Impeachment is the process of charging an official with misconduct. If the House approves articles of impeachment by a simple majority, the official is impeached. The Senate then conducts a trial to determine whether to remove the official from office.
Oversight and Investigation
The House exercises oversight over the executive branch through investigations and hearings. These activities ensure that government agencies follow laws and use funds appropriately. The House can summon witnesses, request documents, and hold hearings to scrutinize government actions.
- Initiate revenue bills
- Impeach federal officials
- Conduct oversight and investigations
- Approve budgets and spending