Legislature

A legislature is a formal assembly vested with the authority to make and revise laws. It is a core component of many democratic systems, sitting alongside the executive and judiciary. Legislatures derive legitimacy from a constitution or similar legal framework and are tasked with translating public policy into binding norms while representing citizens or subnational units.

Most legislatures are composed of elected or appointed members and may be unicameral or bicameral. Unicameral bodies have a single chamber; bicameral bodies have two, often to balance population size and regional interests. Members are called representatives, deputies, or senators, and terms vary across jurisdictions.

Core functions include drafting, debating, amending, and passing laws; approving budgets; and overseeing the executive branch. Legislatures conduct inquiries, hold hearings, and scrutinize government actions through committees, which may specialize in finance, foreign affairs, or justice. They also represent constituents and advocate policy priorities.

The lawmaking process typically begins with a bill, subjected to committee study, debate, and multiple votes. If approved, it may require reconciliation between chambers and formal assent by the head of state. Some systems permit vetoes, suspensive declarations, or expedited procedures for urgent matters.

Legislatures interact with the executive and judiciary within a system of checks and balances. They may approve treaties, scrutinize appointments, and withhold or grant confidence to the government. Courts interpret statutes, while constitutional provisions define the scope and limits of legislative power.

Alongside national legislatures, many countries have regional or local legislatures, and some jurisdictions maintain ceremonial or advisory bodies. Comparative studies highlight variations in power, membership, term length, and party dynamics.