Overview of U.S. Senate Structure and Functions
This document provides key facts about the U.S. Senate, emphasizing that about one-third of current Senators previously served in the House of Representatives. Each state is equally represented by two Senators, with terms lasting six years. Originally chosen by state legislatures, Senators have been directly elected by the people since 1913. The Senate functions as a continuous body, with one-third of members up for re-election every two years, ensuring stability. Senators must be at least 30 years old and citizens for at least 9 years.
Overview of U.S. Senate Structure and Functions
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Presentation Transcript
The SenateChapter 10, Section 3 CWP Mrs. Huston
Facts • About 1/3 of current Senators previously served in the House of Representatives • Equal Representation—each state has two Senators • Terms of six years
Election • Senators were originally chosen by state legislatures • Since 1913 they have been directly elected by the people of the state they represent
Continuous Body • 1/3 of members up for re-election every two years • This means 2/3 of the members continue into the following session • It provides for a smooth transition
Qualifications • Higher level than for the House of Reps • Must be at least 30 years of age • Must have been a citizen at least 9 yrs
Salary • The annual salary of a rank and file member of the House or Senate is … • $165,200 as of January, 2007
Current Legislation • http://www.senate.gov/pagelayout/legislative/b_three_sections_with_teasers/active_leg_page.htm
