Legislative

Speaker of the House

Definition

The presiding officer of the House of Representatives and second in the presidential line of succession.

The lower chamber of Congress with 435 members apportioned by population. Members serve 2-year terms.

A legislative act authorizing the expenditure of government funds for a specific purpose.

A legislature with two separate chambers. The U.S. Congress is bicameral, consisting of the Senate and the House of Representatives.

A proposed law introduced in Congress or a state legislature.

A meeting of members of a political party or interest group to discuss strategy, select candidates, or make policy decisions.

A Senate procedure to end debate (a filibuster) and bring a matter to a vote. Requires 60 out of 100 senators.

A subgroup of legislators assigned to review, amend, and recommend action on bills related to a specific topic.