Legislative Branch of the U.S. Government

Job

Makes the lawsMade up of 2 houses

Lower House

House of Representatives

435 members

Qualifications

At least 25 years old

Must be a U.S. citizen for 7 years

Resident of the district you represent

Leaders

Speaker of the House

currently Nancy Pelosi (D-CA)

DUTIES

Brings up impeachment charges

All revenue/money bills(proposals to become laws) start in the House

Choose president if electoral college has no majority

Brian Higgins 27th district

Louise Slaughter 28th district

Chris Lee 26th district

New York State Federal Representative Districting Map

Upper House

Senate

100 members

QUALIFICATIONS

At least 30 years old

Must be U.S. citizen for 9 years

Resident of the state representing

LEADERS

Harry Reid (D) Senate Majority

Leader

Mitch McConnell (R) Senate Minority

Leader

DUTIES

Serve as a jury for impeachment trial

Ratify all treaties (2/3 vote)

Approve appointments by president

Kirsten Gillibrand (D)

Chuck Schumer (D)

Powers of Congress

Collect taxes

Declare war

Regulate commerce with foreign countries and between states

Coin money

Credit – borrow money

Establish a Post Office Regulate U.S. territories

*Elastic Clause*

Necessary & Proper Clause “Congress shall make all laws that are

necessary and proper”

Gives Congress the ability to expand or stretch its specific powers to meet the needs of a changing country.