Congressional Powers and Procedures
Bicameralism is the system of having two legislative chambers working together. This allows for more thoughtful lawmaking as bills must satisfy two different bodies with different priorities and constituencies.
Congress operates with both expressed powers and implied powers. Expressed powers are explicitly stated in the Constitution and include collecting taxes, coining money, declaring war, regulating commerce, controlling immigration, establishing bankruptcy rules, borrowing money, and regulating trade.
The elastic clause grants Congress implied powers, allowing them to determine what is "necessary and proper" to carry out their expressed powers. This flexibility has allowed Congress to adapt to changing times and circumstances.
Test Tip: Remember that expressed powers are specifically listed in the Constitution, while implied powers come from the elastic clause and allow Congress to stretch their authority to address new challenges.
When Congress passes a bill, the President has several options: sign it into law, veto it (reject), let it become law without signature after 10 days, or issue a pocket veto when Congress is not in session. If the President vetoes a bill, Congress can override it with a two-thirds vote in both chambers.