Congressional Information

What Does Congress Do?

The United States Congress is the predominant, though not the only, player in the legislative branch of the federal government. The House and the Senate work together to make the laws for the nation, thus setting federal policy and budget priorities. Information on the legislative process can be found in the following sites:

• Congressional Budget Office
• Congressional Universe (for use on campus only)
• GPO Access
• Guide to Congress (Reference JK1021 .C565 2000)
• How Our Laws Are Made
• Legislative Resources pathfinder from The College of Wooster
• THOMAS

In addition, the Senate holds the "advise and consent" role to the President, approving nominations and treaties made by the executive branch as well as spearheading investigations and impeachment proceedings as necessary.

• Powers and Procedures (Senate)

Above all, the Congress represents the millions of American citizens across the country and provides a voice for the people. In order to represent their constituents, members of Congress have offices both in Washington, DC and in their home districts, respond to citizens' questions and letters, and travel to meet their constituents and hear their concerns face to face. The citizen, then, has a responsibility to know his or her member of Congress and to contact that person to make concerns known. These links offer starting points for making your voice heard:

• Congressional Directories from the University of Michigan
• Contact Your Representatives! from The College of Wooster
• Congressional Research Service Reports (summaries only)
• Elections pathfinder from The College of Wooster
• Guided Tours of the U. S. Capitol

Congressional History

Since its beginning in 1787, Congress has played a prominent role in American politics and policy. These sites provide a basic framework for the origins of Congressional activities as well as useful and fascinating historical information.

• A Century of Lawmaking For a New Nation historical legislative materials from the Library of Congress
• Biographical Directory of the United States Congress, 1774 to Present
• Constitution of the United States
• Core Documents of U. S. Democracy
• Federalist Papers
• Senate Chronology
• U. S. Congressional Serial Set Finding List