Number: RS20668
Title: How Measures Are Brought to the Senate Floor: A Brief Introduction
Authors: Christopher M. Davis, Government and Finance Division 
Abstract: Two basic methods are used by the Senate to bring legislation to the floor for consideration. The Senate, at the majority leader's request, grants unanimous consent to take up a matter, or agrees to his motion to proceed to consider it. Because the motion to proceed is subject to debate in most circumstances, it is not frequently used. Both methods are derived from the basic premise that the Senate as a body may decide what matters it considers. The Senate may also use the same two methods to bring up executive business (nominations and treaties).
Pages: 6
Date: April 15, 2008