A Bill Becomes a Law
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Unit 10
 
Legislative Lingo
 
Strategies and Power
 
Exceptions to the Rule
 
Stats, Quirks, and Examples
 
House Versus Senate
 
The Legislative Junkie

House Versus Senate

Unit 10

 

GERMANENESS: One of the most important differences between the House and Senate is the House rule that all amendments must be germane (relevant or related) to the bill under consideration. In the Senate, this is only true for general appropriations and budget bills.

FILIBUSTER: Talking a proposal to death or to get a compromise is only allowed in the Senate. Cloture is the process by which such unlimited debate can be ended. When invoked by roll call vote -- three-fifths of those present and voting -- it limits each senator to one hour of debate. Other delaying tactics such as requiring time-consuming recorded votes or raising complex questions about legislative procedures ("points of order") can be used in either the House or Senate.

 

Unit Introduction

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Copyright © 2005 The Dirksen Congressional Center

Home Unit 1: Introduction Unit 2: From Problems to Solutions Unit 3: Origin of Bills Unit 4: Bill Drafting and Floor Introduction Unit 5: Referral to Committee Unit 6: Subcommittee Review Unit 7: Mark-up and Subcommittee Voting Unit 8: Committee Action Unit 9: Scheduling Floor Consideration Unit 10: Floor Debate Unit 11: Floor Votes Unit 12: Ironing Out Differences Unit 13: Presidential Action and Congressional Reaction Unit 14: The Legislative Processes