Powers & Responsibilities: Section III.B.3

The Legislative Branch of the United States government has several powers and responsibilities outlined in the Constitution. Some of the main powers and responsibilities include: Creating and passing laws, Overseeing government operations, Impeachment, Confirming Presidential nominations and Declaring war. The Legislative Branch has the power to create and pass laws that govern the country. This power is shared between the House of Representatives and the Senate, and both must agree on a bill before it can become law. The Legislative Branch is responsible for overseeing the operations of the federal government. This includes conducting investigations and hearings, approving appointments and treaties, and approving the federal budget. The Legislative Branch has the power to impeach federal officials, including the President and judges of the Supreme Court, for high crimes and misdemeanors. The Senate has the power to confirm or reject presidential nominations for positions such as Supreme Court justices, cabinet members, and ambassadors. The Constitution gives Congress the power to declare war. While the President is the Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces, he or she cannot declare war without the approval of Congress. Overall, the Legislative Branch plays a vital role in the American government by creating and passing laws, overseeing government operations, and ensuring that the federal government operates in accordance with the Constitution.