3.7 Legislative Process, Structure and Powers

Why is the congressional committee system important?

• because committees determine which legislation is put to a vote by the full Congress

• because committees are able to approve legislation faster than the full Congress

• because committees have the responsibility to distribute federal grants

• because committee votes can enact legislation into law

Which words correctly complete the Venn diagram? To become an elected official, a person must...

• meet qualifications put in place by voters

• meet qualifications set by the Supreme Court

• meet qualifications set by the Constitution

• meet qualifications depending on location

This is a list of federal legislative powers. Which power completes the list?

• ratify amendments

• create sales tax

• declare war

• determine local zoning

What is the purpose of legislative appointment confirmation?

• It maintains balance between small and large states.

• It provides the power to override presidential vetoes.

• It allows legislators to introduce and sponsor bills.

• It serves as a check on the executive branch.

This is a map of the United States showing the number of U.S. Representatives from each state. How are the numbers in each state on the map determined?

• the physical size of the state

• the population of the state

• the number of registered voters

• the number of major cities

What is the purpose of a conference committee?

• to settle differences in legislation that has passed both chambers

• to investigate a specific government issue or problem

• to perform research for individual congressional members

• to assign representatives to specific committees

What do many state legislatures have that the U.S. Congress does not?

• ability to introduce bills

• term limits

• legislative leadership

• committees

This is a list of laws. Which law would be enacted by a town council?

• A law determining parking regulations.

• A law dealing with intrastate trade.

• A law concerning the coinage of money.

• A law establishing foreign commerce treaties.

What does the Elastic Clause allow Congress to do?

• declare war

• collect taxes

• make new laws as necessary

• impeach the president

This is a list of requirements to serve in the U.S. Senate.

• registered with the Selective Service Board

• college education

• no criminal record

• resident of the state to be represented