The Committee to which legislation is referred based on the bill’s primary subject matter.
Strangers in the Night
Federal legislation falls into one of two categories: authorizations, which details the policies and funding levels of federal programs; and appropriations,
Wonkology
Wonkology, published by Thompson Coburn, focuses on detailed analysis and updates related to federal government operations, constitutional law, and legislative processes. The blog covers topics such as presidential powers including recess appointments, the presidential certification process, regulatory review by the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA), congressional debate procedures like "strike the last word," and leadership roles within the Senate. It addresses the intersection of law and politics, including election certification, executive authority, regulatory policy, and legislative strategy. The content is aimed at providing legal insights into government functions and political-legal developments.
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Dynamic Scoring
A method of measuring the cost of legislation that factors in anticipated long-term economic impacts.
5, 6, 7, 8!
Congress’s multi-step budget process begins with a budget resolution. The resolution is a nonbinding agreement between the House and Senate…
Debt Ceiling
The congressionally set limit on the amount of money the federal government can borrow.
Push it to the Limit
Among Congress’s extensive spending powers is its authority over the amount of money the federal government can borrow. Federal debt is…
Conference Chair
By Elisa Greenberg & Ben Grove
The House Democratic and Republican leaders who oversee their caucus’ messaging, meetings, and organization.
In the Heights
The Republican and Democratic conference chairs are among the highest-ranking officials in the House of Representatives, just behind the speaker, leaders, and whips.…
Senate Parliamentarian
The nonpartisan official in charge of interpreting Senate rules regarding floor procedures and legislation.
I’ve Got New Rules
In March, we wrote about budget reconciliation and how it can be used to expedite the passage of budget-related legislation through the…
Community Project Funding (Earmarks)
By Ben Grove & Elisa Greenberg
Congressionally-directed spending that benefits a specific member of Congress’s district or state.
Parasite
The Constitution expressly grants Congress the “power of the purse:” the authority to levy taxes and spend money. Out of this responsibility rose the practice…
Budget Reconciliation
A process used to simplify and expedite the passage of budget-related legislation.
It’s All About The Money
To advance legislation, the Senate typically requires 60 votes, thanks to the infamous rule known as the filibuster. But there is a…