GCU - The Legislative Branch in Georgia’s Government (Lesson)

The Legislative Branch in Georgia’s Government

Introduction

The Legislative Branch in Georgia’s Government Icon The legislative branch of Georgia state government consists of the Georgia General Assembly. It formed in 1777, shortly after the start of the American Revolution; it consisted of a single House. In 1789, it became bicameral, consisting of a House of Representatives and a Senate and remains so today. 

 

How a Bill Becomes a Law

Infographic - How a bill becomes law. Download a text version of this image by clicking on the link below it.

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General Assembly

The General Assembly is a bicameral legislature that consists of the Senate and House of Representatives. It consists of 180 members. The Senate has 56 members and the House of Representatives has 180 members. To be elected you must be a US Citizen, Georgia Citizen for at least two years, and maintain a legal residence in their district for at least one year. A Senator must be 25 years old and a Representative must be 21 years old. The term of office is two years with no term limits. 

 

Senate

Georgia’s state constitution names the lieutenant governor as president of the Senate. Whenever there is a tie, he may cast a vote. He organizes committee assignments and names the chairmen. Senate members elect other offices in the Senate, such as president pro tempore, secretary, and floor leader. 

 

House

Members of the House of Representatives elect all of their officers. The presiding officer is the Speaker of the House.

 

Committees

The committee system is used in both the Senate and House. Inside the committee, the members of the General Assembly study and debate different bills before they vote on them. Many committees include topics such as taxation, judiciary, education, and spending of tax money. 

 

Review

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Think About This

 

 

Georgia’s General Assembly is modeled after the United States Congress. A bicameral legislature allows for checks and balances to occur within the one branch of government. The legislative body focuses on passing legislation that will better the state. The Senate and House members work together to continue the progress of Georgia. 

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