The United States House of Representatives is one of the two chambers of the United States Congress, the legislative branch of the federal government of the United States. Here are some key details:
Structure and Membership
History
- The House was established under the United States Constitution, which was ratified in 1788.
- The first meeting of the House was on March 4, 1789, in New York City, then the nation's capital.
- The number of representatives was originally set at 65 by the Constitution, with the number changing over time due to population growth and reapportionment.
- The Apportionment Act of 1911 established the current size of 435 voting members, which was made permanent by the Reapportionment Act of 1929.
Functions
- Legislation: The House introduces, debates, and votes on bills. Revenue bills must originate in the House.
- Impeachment: The House has the power to impeach federal officials, including the President, Vice President, and judges.
- Oversight: It conducts oversight of the executive branch, ensuring accountability and transparency in government operations.
- Elections: The House elects the Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, who presides over the chamber.
Leadership and Committees
- The Speaker of the House, elected by the members, is the presiding officer and often a prominent figure in their political party.
- The House operates through various committees, including standing committees, which handle specific areas of legislation, and select committees for particular issues or investigations.
- Key committees include the Ways and Means Committee, Appropriations Committee, and Rules Committee.
Notable Features
- The filibuster is not part of House rules, making it easier for the majority to control the legislative agenda compared to the United States Senate.
- The House has specific procedures like the Hastert Rule, which informally dictates that the Speaker only brings bills to the floor that have the support of the majority of their party.
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