Bicameral Structure

Definition

The bicameral structure refers to the division of a legislative body into two separate chambers or houses, such as the House of Representatives and the Senate in the United States Congress. This ensures that proposed laws go through a thorough vetting process before becoming enacted.

Related terms

Unicameral Structure: A unicameral structure is when a legislative body has only one chamber or house, as opposed to the two-chamber system in the United States. (e.g., Nebraska's state legislature)

House of Representatives: One of the two chambers in Congress, where representation is based on population. Members serve shorter terms and focus more on local issues.

Senate: The other chamber in Congress, where each state is represented equally with two senators. Senators serve longer terms and have more influence over national policies.