Legislative Branch
The United States Congress is the bicameral legislature of the federal government, consisting of two chambers: the Senate and the House of Representatives. It is the only branch of government that can make new laws.
“All legislative Powers herein granted shall be vested in a Congress of the United States, which shall consist of a Senate and House of Representatives.”
Explore Congress
Senate
The upper chamber of Congress with 100 Senators, 2 from each state, serving 6-year terms.
House of Representatives
The lower chamber of Congress with 435 members apportioned by state population, led by the Speaker of the House.
Support Services
Congressional support agencies including the Library of Congress, Government Accountability Office, and Congressional Budget Office.
Committees
Standing, select, and joint committees that handle legislation, oversight, and investigations in specialized policy areas.
Powers of Congress
Enumerated Powers
- Levy and collect taxes
- Borrow money on U.S. credit
- Regulate commerce
- Establish naturalization rules
- Coin money
- Establish post offices
- Declare war
- Raise and support armies
Exclusive Senate Powers
- Confirm presidential appointments
- Ratify treaties (two-thirds vote)
- Try impeachment cases
Exclusive House Powers
- Originate revenue bills
- Impeach federal officials
- Elect President if no Electoral College majority
The Legislative Process
For a bill to become law, it must be passed by both chambers in identical form and then signed by the President (or passed over a presidential veto by a two-thirds vote in each chamber).
- A bill is introduced in either chamber
- The bill is referred to the appropriate committee(s)
- The committee holds hearings and may amend the bill
- The bill is debated and voted on by the full chamber
- If passed, the bill goes to the other chamber for consideration
- Differences between versions are resolved in conference committee
- Both chambers vote on the final version
- The bill is sent to the President for signature or veto