House of Representatives Powers in the United States

U.S. House of Representatives: The Work of the House Powers

Introduction to House of Representatives Powers

The House of Representatives, combined with the Senate, is the world’s most powerful legislature. Acting in tandem, the two chambers rarely accept legislation proposed by the president without debating and amending it. The two chambers can, and often do, reject the president’s pet proposals. They frequently write and pass legislation that the president opposes, daring the chief executive either to veto it or seek a compromise.

The Constitution gives Congress “all legislative powers” of the national government. The House and Senate share most of these powers. This includes the broad enumerated (listed) powers in Article I, Section 8, of the Constitution-for example, coining money, regulating interstate and foreign commerce, raising and equipping a military, and declaring war. The Constitution also gives the chambers implied powers-to carry out the enumerated powers and to investigate and oversee the executive branch. The House and the Senate share most lawmaking powers. Bills must clear both chambers in exactly the same form before they are sent to the president for approval or veto.

The House has special authority over taxing and spending. In opposing British rule, Americans had protested “taxation without representation.” Mindful of this complaint, the framers of the Constitution required that all tax laws begin in the House of Representatives-the chamber that most closely represents the people. By custom, all laws that authorize the government to spend money originate there as well. The House also has the sole power to initiate impeachment proceedings against the president and other high officials, but the Senate conducts the trial.

The House lacks two specific powers granted to the Senate. Only the Senate can approve treaties negotiated and submitted by the president. However, the House has the power to withhold funding to carry out the agreements, and thus has leverage over many treaties. The Senate also has sole power to confirm cabinet members and other key government officers. Because these officials work on policies such as housing and agriculture that fall under House control, however, they must work with committees in both chambers once in office.” (1)

Resources

Notes and References

• Information about House of Representatives Powers in the Encarta Online Encyclopedia

Guide to House of Representatives Powers