Federal laws are made by the Congress, which is composed of two branches: the Senate and the House of Representatives.
These two bodies make laws for the United States and apply to people who live in the country.
A new law must be introduced to Congress and passed by the president to become effective.
The courts then review the laws and strike them down if they are unconstitutional.
The Senate is composed of 100 members, with two senators from each state.
Their terms are staggered so that one-third of the Senate is up for reelection every two years.
To serve in the Senate, candidates must be at least thirty years old, be citizens of the United States for nine years, and reside in the state they represent.
The Vice President of the United States serves as President of the Senate. He casts the deciding vote in a tie.
Bills are first sent to the appropriate committee for review. There are17 Senate committees and 23 House committees, each with its own set of subcommittees.
The Senate may propose amendments. General appropriations bills originate in the House.
The Senate may propose amendments. General appropriations bills originate in the House.