CongressionalGlossary.com, from TheCapitol.Net Amendments to a measure in the Senate can be offered at almost any time while the measure is under consideration. In addition, an amendment can be debated for an unlimited amount of time. In most cases, an amendment can relate to any subject, even if it is unrelated to the measure that … Read more
New laws and programs are often initiated as a way of resolving problems. At the same time, new laws and programs serve as “accomplishments” for members of Congress. Unfortunately, more often than not, such “accomplishments” do not actually differ that much from programs and laws that are already in existence. As a result, the federal … Read more
When an enrolled bill becomes law, it is then sent to the Archives of the United States. If the bill becomes law by legislative override of an executive veto, Congress sends the bill to the Archives. If the bill becomes law through any other method, such as a pocket approval or signature approval, the White … Read more
Under certain circumstances, congressional committee staff members may choose to depose potential witnesses and scheduled witnesses. The purpose of such depositions is to gather information in order to prepare for a hearing. This is more common in investigative hearings. photo credit: Vincent van der Pas Formal in nature, such questioning of a witness is the … Read more
When faced with an ethical dilemma, public relations professionals ultimately have four choices available to them: avoidance, compliance, ignorance and resignation. photo credit: The Co-operative Avoidance The most ethical choice can sometimes be to avoid answering a question. If you are faced with a question that would require you to make a difficult ethical decision, … Read more
Within the federal government, there are two primary types of organizations: executive departments and independent agencies. photo credit: Mr. T in DC Heading the executive departments are members of the president’s cabinet. They report directly to the president and serve at his pleasure by implementing his agenda and carrying out his policies. The heads of … Read more
As an advocate, particularly in a courtroom setting, it is important to think out in advance the answer you want to hear and then design your questions to present a view toward obtaining that desired answer. photo credit: Taylor.McBride™ Ultimately, you are seeking an answer that favors your position. And a big part of your … Read more
One of the important activities you can undertake as part of advocacy is performing an issue audit. The purpose of this audit is to assess media coverage and public opinion. This refers not only to current media coverage, but also to anticipated media coverage. Such an audit should be conducted on a national level as … Read more
When invited to testify before Congress, you might expect a formal hearing atmosphere. Most people are familiar with the traditional hearing format that involves a single committee conducting a formal hearing. However, there are several other hearing formats that are used by congressional committees. photo credit: Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff One of … Read more
“Accomplishments” in Congress are often collected and touted to fuel reelection bids. Every two years representatives face the grind of election while senators face election every six years. During the interim, members continue to run reelection campaigns. The question of “what have you done for me lately?” hangs over the heads of all Congressional members. … Read more