From the Congressional Glossary – Including Legislative and Budget Terms Enacted / Enacted into Law Once legislation has passed both chambers of Congress in identical form, been signed into law by the President, become law without his signature, or passed over his veto, the legislation is enacted. Legislation to be enacted into law must pass … Read more
From the Congressional Glossary – Including Legislative and Budget Terms Minority Leader Floor leader and chief spokesperson for the minority party in each chamber, elected by the members of that party. The minority leader is also responsible for devising the chamber’s minority party political and procedural strategy. Also see Majority Whip; § 5.50 Party Leadership, … Read more
From the Congressional Glossary – Including Legislative and Budget Terms Pocket Veto The act of the president in withholding his approval of a bill after Congress has adjourned. When Congress is in session, a bill becomes law without the president’s signature if he does not act upon it within 10 days, excluding Sundays, from the … Read more
Leadership in Congress is particularly important as whichever party has the majority garners the responsibility of choosing committee chairs, setting agendas and scheduling legislation for consideration. Understanding the congressional leadership’s priorities helps you understand future legislation. There are many ways in which you can determine those priorities. photo credit: Mrs. Gemstone There are critical times … Read more
. . .it is not far from the truth to say that Congress in session is Congress on public exhibition, whilst Congress in its committee rooms is Congress at work. Woodrow Wilson, Congressional Government, 1885. Most matters are accomplished by Congress in committees. Each chamber of Congress has committees that are established to perform very … Read more