三权分立~.ppt

Part1.Definition and origin The Federal Government The Federal system It is a system of government in which power is divided by the written constitution between the federal (or central) government and the subordinate (state and local) governments. Each level of government is supreme within its sphere of authority with constitutional guarantee. (Each layer of government has separate and distinct powers laid down by constitution). Constitutional changes must be approved by both governments (federal and state). The Federal Government I. Legislative Branch I. Legislative Branch Two-chamber（院） Congress Bicameral(两院制的) Congress Article I of the Constitution grants all legislative power of the federal government to a Congress composed of 2 chambers, a Senate and a House of Representative. I. Legislative Branch Distribution of Membership Each state is entitled to 2 Senators no matter big or small. The total number of the House of Representatives is divided among the states according to their population. Regardless of its population, every state is constitutionally guaranteed at least 1 member of the House of Representative. Nowadays, the House is composed of 435 members. I. Legislative Branch Powers of the House and Senate Both Houses have the power to introduce legislation on any subject. The Senate has the authority to confirm presidential appointments of high officials as well as ratify（批准） all treaties. The House has power over revenue bills and brings charges of improper behavior of officials. I. Legislative Branch Functions of the Congress Legislative functions: The most central is passing laws A bill is introduced; The bill is referred to a committee which studies it and issues a report to the House; The House debates the bill and votes for or against its passage; If passed, the bill is delivered to the Senate; If the Senate approves, it will send to the President who may either sign it into law of veto it. I. Legislative Branch Head of the Congress Senate: The Vi