The branch of government that makes the laws is the legislative branch.
Legislative Branch Overview
- In many democracies, including the United States, the legislative branch is known as Congress, which is comprised of the Senate and the House of Representatives.
- Congress has the sole authority to draft, debate, and pass laws, while also declaring war, regulating commerce, and approving budgets.
- Legislators (senators and representatives) in Congress are elected by citizens to represent their interests and to create national legislation.
Separation of Powers
- The government is divided into three branches: legislative (makes laws), executive (enforces laws), and judicial (interprets laws).
- This system ensures that no single branch holds all power, maintaining checks and balances.
How Laws Are Made
- Proposed laws, known as bills, are introduced in Congress, debated, possibly amended, and voted on.
- If both houses of Congress approve, the bill is sent to the President, who can sign it into law or veto it.
- Congress can override a veto with a two-thirds majority in both houses.
In summary, the legislative branch is the part of government responsible for creating laws.
