Glossary

The two-year term of Congress that began on January 3, 2025, after the 2024 election, and ends on January 3, 2027.

A federal program that requires drug makers to sell outpatient drugs at steep discounts to hospitals and clinics that serve many low-income or uninsured patients.

A charitable, religious, educational or scientific nonprofit exempt from federal income tax under section 501(c)(3) of the tax code. Donations to most are tax-deductible, and they may not campaign for or against candidates.

The HHS agency that runs programs for families and children, including Head Start, child care funding, foster care and adoption support, and TANF.

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The HHS agency that funds services helping older adults and people with disabilities live in their own homes and communities, including programs under the Older Americans Act.

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The office within the Administration for Community Living that runs Older Americans Act programs, such as home-delivered meals and caregiver support.

The 1946 law that sets the basic rules agencies must follow to write regulations, usually including public notice and comment, and lets courts review agency actions.

The Senate's constitutional role in approving treaties, by a two-thirds vote, and in confirming presidential nominees such as judges, ambassadors and Cabinet secretaries, by a majority.

The 2010 health care law that created the health insurance marketplaces with premium tax credits, let states expand Medicaid and barred insurers from denying coverage for preexisting conditions.

The federal agency that ran most U.S. foreign aid for economic development and humanitarian relief. Since July 2025 its remaining programs have been run by the State Department.

The USDA agency that supports the marketing of farm products through grading standards, market news, research and promotion programs, and the National Organic Program.

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The USDA's main in-house scientific research agency, working on food, farming and natural resources.

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An amendment that replaces the entire text of a bill with a new version. Committees often use one to report their revised version of a bill.

The March 2021 COVID-19 relief law that funded direct payments, aid to state and local governments and vaccines, and expanded the Child Tax Credit for 2021.

The 1990 civil rights law that bars discrimination against people with disabilities in jobs, public services, public accommodations and transportation.

The federal agency for national service. It places members and volunteers with nonprofits, schools and public agencies and funds service programs.

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The national passenger railroad, created by Congress in 1971 as a corporation that receives federal funding and is run by a board appointed by the president.

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The USDA agency that protects U.S. agriculture from animal and plant pests and diseases and enforces the Animal Welfare Act.

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A law that bars federal agencies from spending or committing money before Congress appropriates it, or beyond the amount appropriated.

A federal-state partnership that invests in economic development in the Appalachian Region, which covers parts of 13 states.

Laws that provide money for federal agencies to spend. Each year Congress considers 12 regular appropriations bills, written by the House and Senate Appropriations Committees, to fund discretionary programs.

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The legislative branch agency that maintains and preserves the U.S. Capitol, the congressional office buildings, the Library of Congress buildings and the Capitol grounds.

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An Army command that builds and maintains federal water projects, such as flood control, navigation channels, harbors and dams, and manages military construction.

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Protection granted to people in the United States who show they were persecuted, or fear persecution, in their home country because of race, religion, nationality, political opinion or membership in a particular social group.

Elected by voters across a whole state rather than one district. States with only one House seat elect their representative at-large.

The head of the Department of Justice and the chief lawyer of the federal government, nominated by the president and confirmed by the Senate.

A law that creates or continues a federal program or agency and often sets how much money may be provided for it. The money itself comes separately, through appropriations. A reauthorization renews a program whose authorization is running out.

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A joint resolution in which Congress authorizes the president to use military force, such as the 2001 law passed after the September 11 attacks.

The main federal anti-money laundering law. It requires banks and other financial institutions to keep records and report large cash transactions and suspicious activity.

A fixed amount of federal money given to states or local governments for a broad purpose, such as social services, with wide flexibility in how to spend it.

The federal power marketing administration that sells electricity from federal dams in the Columbia River Basin to utilities in the Pacific Northwest and runs much of the region's high-voltage transmission.

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The part of U.S. Customs and Border Protection that patrols the land borders and coasts between official ports of entry.

The legal authority Congress gives agencies to commit the government to spend money, for example by signing contracts. The actual payments, called outlays, may come later.

The House and Senate committees that write the annual budget resolution and assemble reconciliation bills from other committees' parts.

The amount by which federal spending is larger than revenue in a fiscal year. The government borrows to cover it, which adds to the national debt.

A fast-track process for bills that change spending, revenue or the debt limit as directed by a budget resolution. Senate debate is limited to 20 hours, so a reconciliation bill can pass by simple majority without facing a filibuster.

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A concurrent resolution in which Congress sets overall spending, revenue and deficit levels for the coming fiscal year and later years. It does not go to the president, but it can include reconciliation instructions.

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The Justice Department agency that enforces federal firearms and explosives laws, licenses gun dealers, and investigates arson and illegal trafficking of alcohol and tobacco.

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The Interior Department agency that carries out the federal government's trust responsibilities to federally recognized tribes, including managing land held in trust and supporting tribal governments.

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The Interior Department agency that funds and operates schools for American Indian and Alaska Native students, most of them run by tribes.

The Commerce Department agency that controls exports of sensitive technology and goods with military uses, including through its Entity List of restricted foreign companies.

The Justice Department office that funds state, local and tribal criminal justice programs, including the Byrne Justice Assistance Grants.

The Labor Department agency that measures employment, unemployment, wages and inflation, including the monthly jobs report and the Consumer Price Index.

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The Interior Department agency that manages about 245 million acres of public land, mostly in the West, for uses such as grazing, energy, mining, recreation and conservation.

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The Interior Department agency that manages offshore energy and mineral leasing on the Outer Continental Shelf, including oil, gas and wind.

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The Interior Department agency that builds and runs dams, reservoirs and canals in the 17 western states and is the largest wholesale supplier of water in the country.

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The Interior Department agency that enforces safety and environmental rules for offshore oil and gas operations.

The Treasury Department bureau that makes federal payments, collects debts owed to the government and sells Treasury securities.

A Senate rule that lets senators strike provisions from a reconciliation bill that are extraneous, such as those whose effect on spending or revenue is merely incidental. Waiving it takes 60 votes.

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Profit from selling an asset, such as stock or property, for more than it cost. Gains on assets held more than a year are usually taxed at lower rates.

The police force that protects Congress, its members and the Capitol complex.

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The March 2020 coronavirus relief law that funded direct payments, expanded unemployment benefits and created the Paycheck Protection Program for small businesses.

A formal vote by the House or Senate condemning a member's conduct. It does not remove the member from office.

The Commerce Department agency that counts the population every 10 years, as the Constitution requires, and runs surveys such as the American Community Survey.

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A part of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, created by the Affordable Care Act, that tests new ways of paying for care in Medicare and Medicaid to lower costs or improve quality.

The HHS agency that tracks and works to prevent disease, injury and health threats, and supports state and local health departments.

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The HHS agency that runs Medicare and, with the states, Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program, and oversees the Affordable Care Act marketplaces.

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The independent agency that gathers foreign intelligence, mostly from human sources, analyzes it for policymakers and carries out covert action when the president directs.

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A tax credit for each qualifying child that lowers a family's federal income tax. Part of it can be paid as a refund to families who owe little or no tax.

A federal-state program that covers children in families whose incomes are too high for Medicaid but who cannot afford private coverage.

The ruling political party of the People's Republic of China, which has governed the country since 1949.

A 2022 law that provided grants and tax credits to build semiconductor factories in the United States and authorized more money for scientific research.

The DHS agency that decides applications for immigration benefits, such as green cards, work permits, asylum and citizenship.

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A fine that an agency or court can impose for breaking a law or rule, without a criminal conviction.

The landmark law that bars discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex or national origin in employment, public accommodations and federally funded programs.

The main federal law on air pollution. It lets the EPA set national air quality standards and limit emissions from vehicles, power plants and factories.

The main federal law on water pollution. It regulates discharges into rivers, lakes and wetlands, mostly through permits, and helps fund wastewater treatment.

The House officer who keeps the official records, receives bills, runs the electronic voting system and publishes the results of roll call votes.

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The Senate's way to end debate and move to a vote. On most matters it takes three-fifths of all senators, 60 when there are no vacancies, and it limits further debate to 30 hours.

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A military service in the Department of Homeland Security that handles maritime safety, search and rescue, law enforcement at sea and port security. In wartime it can operate as part of the Navy.

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The official compilation of general and permanent federal laws, organized by subject into 54 titles.

The official collection of the permanent rules issued by federal agencies, organized by subject into 50 titles.

An independent, bipartisan commission that studies civil rights issues and reports to the president and Congress.

An independent, bipartisan commission that monitors religious freedom abroad and makes policy recommendations to the president, the Secretary of State and Congress.

The whole House sitting as a committee, with simpler procedures and a quorum of 100, to debate and amend bills. It then reports back to the House, which votes on passage.

A committee of federal agencies, chaired by the Treasury Secretary, that reviews foreign investments in U.S. businesses and real estate for national security risks.

The Senate committee that handles the Senate's rules, federal election law and the administration of the Senate.

A government-owned corporation in the USDA that finances farm support, conservation and disaster programs, borrowing from the Treasury up to a limit set by law.

The independent agency that regulates futures, options and swaps markets, such as those for farm commodities, energy and interest rates.

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A HUD program that gives flexible grants to cities, counties and states for housing, infrastructure and economic development that mainly benefit low- and moderate-income people.

The Justice Department office that gives grants to state, local and tribal police agencies, including for hiring officers.

The head of the Government Accountability Office, appointed by the president with Senate confirmation to a 15-year term.

A measure, labeled H.Con.Res. or S.Con.Res., adopted by both chambers but not sent to the president, so it does not have the force of law. It is used for the budget resolution and for matters affecting both chambers, such as adjournment.

A temporary panel of House and Senate members appointed to settle differences between the two chambers' versions of a bill. Its agreement, the conference report, goes back to both chambers for a vote.

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The final compromise version of a bill negotiated by House and Senate members on a conference committee. Each chamber must approve it without changes before the bill can go to the president.

The 1974 law that created the congressional budget process, the House and Senate Budget Committees and the Congressional Budget Office. It sets the rules for budget resolutions, reconciliation and budget points of order.

Congress's nonpartisan budget office. It estimates what bills would cost and publishes economic and budget projections.

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The area a House member represents. Each state is divided into as many districts as it has House seats, and the lines are redrawn after each census.

Congress's highest civilian honor for distinguished achievements, awarded by law. Committee rules require at least two-thirds of each chamber to cosponsor the bill.

The official daily record of what is said and done on the House and Senate floors, published when Congress is in session.

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A nonpartisan office in the Library of Congress that provides research and analysis to members of Congress and their staff. Its analysts write the official bill summaries on Congress.gov.

A 1996 law that lets Congress overturn a federal agency rule by passing a joint resolution of disapproval, which the president can sign or veto. In the Senate these resolutions cannot be filibustered, and a rule overturned this way cannot be reissued in substantially the same form.

A USDA program that pays farmers yearly rent to take environmentally sensitive cropland out of production and plant cover such as grass or trees, usually for 10 to 15 years.

The federal agency, created by the Dodd-Frank Act in 2010, that enforces consumer financial protection laws for products such as mortgages, credit cards and student loans.

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The independent agency that sets safety standards for consumer products and can order recalls of dangerous ones.

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A temporary funding law that keeps agencies running, usually at existing rates, when Congress has not passed the regular appropriations bills by the start of the fiscal year on October 1.

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The federal law that sorts drugs into five schedules based on medical use and potential for abuse and regulates how they are made, prescribed and sold.

The transfer of title to land or other property. Many bills direct an agency to convey federal land to a state, town or tribe.

The office in the Library of Congress that registers copyrights and advises Congress on copyright law.

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A private nonprofit corporation created by Congress in 1967 to distribute federal funds to public radio and television stations. After Congress rescinded its funding in 2025, it began winding down.

A member who formally signs on to support another member's bill. The sponsor is the member who introduces it.

An analysis, usually by the Congressional Budget Office, of how a bill would change federal spending and revenue, usually over the next 10 years.

The White House office that coordinates federal environmental policy and oversees how agencies carry out the National Environmental Policy Act.

One of the 13 federal appeals courts, also called circuit courts, that review decisions of the federal district courts and some agencies.

A federal court that reviews decisions of the Board of Veterans' Appeals on VA benefits.

A federal court that hears claims for money against the United States, such as contract disputes and claims that the government took private property.

The DHS agency that secures the borders and ports of entry, inspects people and goods coming into the country and collects tariffs. It includes the U.S. Border Patrol.

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The DHS agency that works to protect federal networks and critical infrastructure, such as power grids and election systems, from cyber and physical threats.

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A 1931 law that requires contractors on federally funded construction projects to pay workers at least the wages that prevail locally.

A cap set by law on the total amount the Treasury can borrow. Congress raises or suspends it by law; it limits borrowing to pay for spending already approved, and does not itself approve new spending.

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The Defense Department agency that runs the military health system, including military hospitals and clinics and the TRICARE health program.

A 1950 law that lets the president require companies to prioritize government contracts and use loans, purchases and other tools to make sure industry produces what is needed for national defense and emergencies.

A policy created in 2012 that grants temporary protection from deportation and work permits to some people brought to the United States as children. It does not provide legal status.

A member of the House who represents the District of Columbia or a U.S. territory such as Guam. Delegates can serve on committees and introduce bills but cannot vote on passing them.

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A federal-state partnership that invests in economic development in parts of eight states in the Mississippi River Delta and the Alabama Black Belt.

An independent federal agency that supports infrastructure, such as energy systems and health clinics, in rural Alaska.

The federal department that runs farm, food, nutrition and rural programs, including SNAP, school meals, crop insurance, inspection of meat and poultry, and the national forests.

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The federal department that promotes economic growth and trade. Its offices include the Census Bureau, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the Patent and Trademark Office and the agency that controls sensitive exports.

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The federal department that runs the U.S. military: the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force and Space Force. A September 2025 executive order authorized Department of War as a secondary name.

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The federal department that administers federal student aid, such as Pell Grants and student loans, funds programs for schools and enforces civil rights laws in education. States and local districts run the schools.

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The federal department responsible for energy policy and research, the national laboratories, and the nuclear weapons complex through the National Nuclear Security Administration.

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An initiative created by executive order in January 2025 to cut federal spending and modernize government technology. Despite the name, it is not a department created by Congress; the order set its temporary organization to end on July 4, 2026.

The federal department for health and social services. It includes the FDA, the CDC, the NIH and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

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The federal department created in 2002 to protect the country from threats. It includes Customs and Border Protection, ICE, TSA, FEMA, the Coast Guard, the Secret Service and CISA.

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The federal department for housing and community development. It runs public housing and Housing Choice Vouchers, the Federal Housing Administration and Community Development Block Grants.

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The federal department that enforces federal law and represents the United States in court. It is led by the Attorney General and includes the FBI, DEA, ATF, U.S. Marshals and the Bureau of Prisons.

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The federal department that enforces wage, workplace safety and benefits laws, funds job training, oversees unemployment insurance with the states and publishes jobs and price data through the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

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The federal department that carries out U.S. foreign policy and diplomacy, runs embassies and consulates, and issues passports and visas. It is led by the Secretary of State.

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The federal department that manages most federal public lands and natural resources, through agencies such as the National Park Service, the Bureau of Land Management, the Fish and Wildlife Service and the Bureau of Indian Affairs.

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The federal department that manages federal finances. It collects taxes through the IRS, pays the government's bills, borrows by selling Treasury securities, produces currency and enforces financial sanctions.

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The federal department for highways, aviation, rail, transit, pipelines and shipping. It includes the FAA, the Federal Highway Administration and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

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The federal department that provides health care, disability compensation, education benefits, home loan guarantees and burial benefits to veterans and some of their families.

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FEMA's main account for disaster response and recovery, used to help people and communities after disasters, including those declared by the president.

A House procedure that lets a majority of members, 218 when every seat is filled, force a bill out of committee and onto the floor by signing a petition.

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Federal spending that Congress sets each year in appropriations bills, such as for defense, education and transportation. It is roughly a quarter of all federal spending.

A federal trial court. There are 94 federal judicial districts, with at least one in each state.

The 2010 financial reform law passed after the 2008 financial crisis. It created the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and tightened rules for banks and derivatives.

The Justice Department agency that enforces federal drug laws and regulates the handling of controlled substances, such as prescription opioids.

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The constitutional guarantee, in the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments, that the government cannot take away life, liberty or property without fair legal procedures.

A Universal Service Fund program, run by the FCC, that discounts internet and telecommunications services for schools and libraries.

Money in a spending bill that a member of Congress requests for a specific project in their state or district. The House calls them Community Project Funding and the Senate congressionally directed spending; both publish who asked for each one.

A refundable tax credit for low- and moderate-income workers. The amount depends on income and the number of children.

A legal right to use someone else's land for a specific purpose, such as a road or pipeline, or a limit on how land may be used, such as a conservation easement that bars development.

The Commerce Department agency that makes grants for economic development in distressed communities.

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The independent agency that helps states run federal elections. It sets voluntary voting system guidelines, certifies voting equipment and distributes election grants.

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The main federal law for K-12 education, first passed in 1965. It funds schools with many low-income students through Title I and sets testing and accountability rules. Its current version is the Every Student Succeeds Act.

The government's power to take private property for public use. The Fifth Amendment requires just compensation.

The Labor Department agency that funds job training and employment services and oversees state unemployment insurance programs.

Acting on several items together with a single vote, such as a package of amendments or nominations.

The 1973 law that protects species listed as endangered or threatened and the habitat they depend on.

The Energy Department's independent statistics agency for energy data, analysis and forecasts.

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The official copy of a bill as passed by one chamber, including any floor amendments, which is then sent to the other chamber.

The final copy of a bill passed in identical form by both chambers, signed by the Speaker and the president of the Senate or their stand-ins and presented to the president.

A program that pays benefits to everyone who meets the eligibility rules set in law, such as Social Security or Medicare. Its spending is mandatory.

A detailed study, required by the National Environmental Policy Act for major federal actions, of a project's likely effects on the environment and of alternatives to it.

The independent agency that writes and enforces rules under federal environmental laws, such as the Clean Air Act and the Clean Water Act, and helps fund state water infrastructure.

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A USDA program that shares the cost of conservation practices on working farms, ranches and forests, such as improving soil health or water quality.

The independent agency that enforces federal laws against job discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetic information.

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A federal tax on property passed on at death. It applies only to estates above a large exemption amount, so most estates owe none.

A tax on a specific good or activity, such as gasoline, alcohol, tobacco or airline tickets, usually collected from the producer or seller.

The Justice Department office that runs the immigration courts, where immigration judges decide deportation cases and asylum claims.

The offices that directly support the president, including the White House staff, the Office of Management and Budget, the National Security Council and the U.S. Trade Representative.

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A written directive from the president to federal agencies on how to carry out the law. It must rest on the president's authority under the Constitution or a statute; a later president can revoke it, and Congress or the courts can limit it.

The federal export credit agency. It provides loans, loan guarantees and insurance that help foreign buyers purchase U.S. goods and services when private financing falls short.

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The 1938 law that sets the federal minimum wage, requires overtime pay for many workers and limits child labor.

A government-sponsored company that buys home mortgages from lenders and packages them into securities, which keeps money available for new loans. It has been under federal conservatorship since 2008.

A multiyear law, usually renewed about every five years, that sets policy for farm support, crop insurance, conservation, nutrition programs such as SNAP, and rural development.

The USDA agency that runs farm loans, commodity price and income support, disaster assistance and the Conservation Reserve Program through local county offices.

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The DOT agency that regulates the safety of civil aviation, certifies aircraft and pilots, and runs the air traffic control system.

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The Justice Department's main law enforcement and domestic intelligence agency. It investigates federal crimes, terrorism and espionage.

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The Justice Department agency that runs federal prisons and holds people convicted of federal crimes.

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The independent agency that regulates interstate and international communications by radio, television, wire, satellite and cable, and manages commercial use of the airwaves.

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Insurance that protects farmers against crop losses from natural causes and falling prices. Private companies sell the policies, and the federal government subsidizes premiums and reinsures the companies.

The government corporation that finances the federal crop insurance program, which the USDA's Risk Management Agency runs with private insurers.

The independent agency that insures bank deposits, up to $250,000 per depositor, per bank, for each account ownership category, and supervises many banks.

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The independent agency that enforces federal campaign finance law, including contribution limits and disclosure rules for candidates and political committees.

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The DHS agency that coordinates the federal response to disasters, helps states and communities recover, and runs the National Flood Insurance Program.

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The health insurance program for federal employees, retirees and their families, run by the Office of Personnel Management.

The DOT agency that funds and oversees highway construction and safety programs carried out by the states.

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Eleven regional banks, created by Congress in 1932 and owned by their members, that lend to banks, credit unions and insurers to support housing and community lending.

The part of HUD that insures home mortgages made by private lenders, which lets many borrowers buy with a smaller down payment.

The independent agency that regulates Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and the Federal Home Loan Banks.

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The independent agency that oversees labor relations between federal agencies and the unions representing federal employees.

The DHS agency that trains officers and agents for most federal law enforcement agencies.

The independent agency that regulates ocean shipping in U.S. foreign trade to keep it competitive and reliable for exporters, importers and consumers.

The share of a state's Medicaid costs that the federal government pays. It is set by a formula and is higher in states with lower income per person.

The DOT agency that regulates the safety of commercial trucks and buses and their drivers.

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The DHS agency that provides security and law enforcement at federal buildings.

The DOT agency that sets rail safety rules and funds passenger and freight rail projects, including grants to Amtrak.

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The daily official publication of the federal government where agencies publish proposed and final rules, notices and presidential documents.

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The central bank of the United States. It sets monetary policy to promote maximum employment and stable prices, supervises many banks and runs key payment systems.

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The independent agency that enforces consumer protection and antitrust laws against unfair, deceptive and anticompetitive business practices.

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The DOT agency that funds public transportation, such as buses, subways and light rail.

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A community health center that receives federal funding or meets federal standards to serve all patients regardless of ability to pay, with fees on a sliding scale.

An American Indian or Alaska Native tribe that the United States recognizes as a sovereign government with a government-to-government relationship, which makes it eligible for federal programs and services.

A serious crime. Under federal law it is one punishable by more than a year in prison.

Using the Senate's rules of extended debate to delay or block a vote. Unless 60 senators vote for cloture, opponents can keep most bills from coming to a final vote.

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The Treasury Department bureau that fights money laundering and other financial crimes by collecting and analyzing reports from banks and other financial institutions.

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The federal government's budget year, which runs from October 1 to September 30 and is named for the calendar year in which it ends. Fiscal year 2027 began on October 1, 2026.

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The Interior Department agency that manages national wildlife refuges and enforces wildlife laws, including the Endangered Species Act for land and freshwater species.

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The HHS agency that regulates the safety of food, drugs, vaccines, medical devices, cosmetics and tobacco products, and approves new drugs before they can be sold.

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The USDA agency that runs federal nutrition assistance, including SNAP, WIC and the school lunch and breakfast programs.

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The USDA agency that inspects meat, poultry and processed egg products to make sure they are safe and correctly labeled.

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The 1978 law that sets rules, and a special court, for government surveillance to collect foreign intelligence. Its Section 702 allows collecting communications of foreigners abroad, which can include Americans who are in contact with them.

The U.S. government program for selling defense equipment, services and training to other countries, managed by the Defense Department under the Arms Export Control Act. Congress can block major sales by joint resolution.

The USDA agency that manages the 193 million acres of national forests and grasslands and supports state, tribal and private forestry.

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A government-sponsored company that buys home mortgages from lenders and packages them into securities. Like Fannie Mae, it has been under federal conservatorship since 2008.

The form students fill out to apply for federal grants, loans and work-study. Many states and colleges also use it for their own aid.

The law that gives the public the right to request records from federal agencies, with exemptions such as national security and personal privacy.

The November election in which voters choose who will hold office from among the nominees and other qualified candidates.

The independent agency that manages federal buildings and leases, buys goods and services for other agencies and runs shared technology services.

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The Interior Department's science agency. It maps the country and studies earthquakes, volcanoes, water, minerals and ecosystems.

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Education benefits for veterans and service members, run by the VA, that help pay for college, job training and housing while in school.

A government corporation within HUD that guarantees securities backed by federally insured or guaranteed home loans, such as FHA and VA mortgages.

Congress's nonpartisan watchdog. It audits federal agencies and programs and reports on how taxpayer money is spent. It is led by the Comptroller General.

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The legislative branch agency that publishes official federal documents, including bills, laws, the Congressional Record and the Federal Register, and runs the GovInfo website.

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What happens when appropriations lapse: agencies must stop work that is not allowed without funding, apart from narrow exceptions such as protecting life and property.

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A temporary visa that lets U.S. employers hire foreign workers in specialty occupations that usually require at least a bachelor's degree, subject to an annual cap.

A law that limits partisan political activity by federal employees, such as campaigning while on duty or using their official authority to affect an election.

A federal program that funds local early childhood education, health and nutrition services for young children from low-income families.

The HHS agency that funds health care for people who are uninsured or live in underserved areas, including community health centers, and oversees the 340B drug pricing program and the organ transplant system.

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A tax-advantaged savings account for medical expenses, available to people with a high-deductible health plan. Contributions, growth and withdrawals for medical costs are tax-free.

A measure received from the other chamber that is kept at the presiding officer's desk instead of being sent to committee, so it can be taken up directly on the floor.

The 1965 law that authorizes most federal student aid, including Pell Grants and federal student loans, and aid to colleges.

The federal fund, paid for mostly by gasoline and diesel taxes, that finances highway and public transit programs.

The House calendar for public measures that do not raise revenue or spend money, including most resolutions.

HUD's main rental assistance program, often called Section 8. Local housing agencies give low-income families vouchers that cover part of the rent on a private home or apartment.

The DHS agency that enforces immigration law inside the United States, including detention and removal, and investigates crimes that cross borders.

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The main federal immigration law. It sets the rules for visas, green cards, asylum, deportation and citizenship.

The House's power to formally charge a federal official, such as the president or a judge, with misconduct by majority vote. The Senate then holds a trial, where a two-thirds vote is needed to convict and remove the official.

In the Congress Guide →

The 1974 law that sets rules for when the president may delay or withhold money Congress has provided. Withholding funds to cancel them requires a rescission proposal, which Congress must pass within 45 days of continuous session.

The person who currently holds an office, especially one running to keep it.

The HHS agency that provides health care to members of federally recognized American Indian and Alaska Native tribes, directly and through tribal and urban programs.

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The federal law that guarantees children with disabilities a free appropriate public education and funds special education services.

A 2022 budget reconciliation law that created and expanded clean energy tax credits, let Medicare negotiate the prices of some drugs and added funding for the IRS.

The 2021 infrastructure law that funded roads, bridges, transit, rail, water systems, broadband and the power grid.

An independent office inside a federal agency that audits and investigates the agency's programs to find waste, fraud, abuse and mismanagement, and reports to the agency head and Congress.

An independent, nonpartisan institution created by Congress in 1984 to work on preventing and resolving violent conflicts abroad.

A set of laws, first passed in 1807, that let the president use the armed forces or federalized National Guard inside the United States to suppress an insurrection or enforce federal law in certain situations.

The 18 federal agencies and offices that gather and analyze intelligence, such as the CIA, the NSA and parts of the FBI, coordinated by the Director of National Intelligence.

A rule that an agency issues and puts into effect without first taking public comment, usually citing good cause such as an emergency. Comments are taken afterward.

The body of federal tax law, found in Title 26 of the U.S. Code.

The Treasury Department agency that collects federal taxes, processes tax returns and enforces the tax code.

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A court in The Hague that tries individuals for genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity and aggression. The United States is not a member.

The federal agency, created by the BUILD Act of 2018, that invests in private projects in developing countries through loans, equity and political risk insurance.

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A 1977 law that lets the president regulate economic dealings with other countries, such as freezing assets and imposing sanctions, after declaring a national emergency over an unusual foreign threat. Its use to impose tariffs has been challenged in court.

An international organization that lends to countries facing balance of payments crises and monitors the world economy. The United States is its largest shareholder.

The Commerce Department agency that promotes U.S. exports, helps American businesses compete abroad and enforces trade laws against unfairly traded imports.

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An independent agency that investigates how imports affect U.S. industries, decides some unfair trade cases and maintains the U.S. tariff schedule.

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A committee of House and Senate members whose nonpartisan staff estimate how tax legislation would change federal revenue.

A measure, labeled H.J.Res. or S.J.Res., that becomes law like a bill when both chambers pass it and the president signs it. Joint resolutions are also used to propose constitutional amendments, which go to the states instead of the president.

In the Congress Guide →

A session of Congress held after the November election and before the new Congress begins in January, when some members who lost or retired are still serving.

When the federal government takes title to land for the benefit of a tribe or individual tribal members. Trust land is generally exempt from state and local taxes and is under tribal and federal jurisdiction.

A person allowed to live and work in the United States permanently, shown by a green card. Most can apply to become citizens after five years.

A nonprofit created by Congress in 1974 that funds civil legal aid for low-income Americans.

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The research library of Congress and one of the largest libraries in the world. It also houses the Copyright Office and the Congressional Research Service.

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A federal block grant that helps low-income households pay heating and cooling bills and make their homes more energy efficient.

The leader elected by the party with the most seats in a chamber. In the Senate the majority leader largely decides which bills come to the floor; in the House the majority leader schedules floor business with the Speaker.

A minimum prison term set by law for certain crimes, which a judge generally cannot go below.

Federal spending required by existing law, such as Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid, that does not need yearly appropriations. Congress changes it by changing the underlying law.

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The DOT agency that supports the U.S. merchant marine, shipbuilding and ports.

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A committee meeting where members debate, amend and vote on a bill's text, and decide whether to report it to the full chamber.

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The Justice Department agency that protects federal courts and judges, catches fugitives, transports federal prisoners and runs the witness protection program.

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The health coverage program for people with low incomes and some people with disabilities, run by the states and paid for jointly by the states and the federal government.

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The federal health insurance program for people 65 and older and for some younger people with disabilities or end-stage kidney disease.

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Private health plans approved by Medicare that cover hospital and doctor services, and usually prescription drugs, in place of traditional Medicare.

The part of Medicare that covers outpatient prescription drugs through private plans.

The independent agency that hears appeals from federal employees on firings and other personnel actions and protects the merit-based civil service.

A general election held halfway through a president's four-year term, when all House seats and about a third of Senate seats are on the ballot. The next one is on November 3, 2026.

A federal foreign aid agency that gives large grants to developing countries that meet standards for good governance and economic policy.

The Labor Department agency that enforces safety and health standards in the nation's mines.

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The leader elected by the party with fewer seats in a chamber, who speaks for that party and leads its strategy.

A less serious crime. Under federal law it is one punishable by a year or less in jail.

A motion to send a measure to a committee. In the Senate a motion to commit with instructions is often used to propose changes, for example during debate on a reconciliation bill.

A motion to accept the other chamber's amendment to a bill. Once both chambers agree to the same text, the bill can go to the president.

A motion to take a measure away from a committee that has not acted on it so the full chamber can consider it. In the Senate it is used under fast-track laws, such as those for disapproving arms sales or agency rules.

A Senate motion to take up a bill or other measure for debate. It can itself be filibustered, so the Senate often needs a cloture vote just to begin debate.

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A House motion, usually offered by the minority just before the vote on passage, to send a bill back to committee. Since 2021 it cannot carry instructions to amend the bill, so adopting it simply returns the bill to committee.

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A motion to vote again on a question already decided. It is usually tabled right away, which makes the outcome final.

A motion to set aside a pending question without a direct vote on it. It cannot be debated, and agreeing to it usually kills the question.

A Senate motion to set aside a budget rule, such as a budget point of order, so a bill or amendment can go forward. Most waivers take 60 votes.

The independent agency that runs the civilian space program and research in aeronautics and space science.

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The independent agency that keeps the permanent records of the federal government, including the Constitution, and publishes the Federal Register.

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The part of the VA that runs national cemeteries and provides headstones, markers and burial benefits for veterans.

The independent agency that charters and supervises federal credit unions and insures deposits at federally insured credit unions.

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The total amount the federal government owes, built up from past deficits. Part is held by the public and part by federal trust funds such as Social Security's.

The yearly law that authorizes Defense Department programs and sets military policy, such as troop pay raises and weapons programs. Congress has passed one every year for more than 60 years.

A 1976 law that sets procedures for the president to declare a national emergency, which unlocks special powers in other laws, and lets Congress end one by joint resolution.

The independent federal agency that gives grants to support the arts and arts education.

The independent federal agency that gives grants for research, education, preservation and public programs in the humanities, such as history and literature.

The 1970 law that requires federal agencies to study the environmental effects of major actions, such as permits or projects, before deciding on them, often in an environmental impact statement.

The federal program, run by FEMA, that sells flood insurance to homeowners, renters and businesses in participating communities and maps flood risk.

The 193 million acres of national forests and grasslands managed by the Forest Service.

Military reserve forces that serve their states under the governor and can be called to federal duty by the president. It includes the Army National Guard and the Air National Guard.

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The DOT agency that sets vehicle safety and fuel economy standards, investigates defects and orders recalls.

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The USDA agency that funds agricultural research, education and extension at universities and other institutions, including land-grant colleges.

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The Commerce Department agency that develops measurement standards and technical guidelines, including widely used frameworks for cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.

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The HHS agency that conducts and funds medical research through 27 institutes and centers.

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The independent agency that protects private-sector workers' rights to organize and bargain collectively, runs union elections and decides unfair labor practice cases.

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The NOAA agency that manages ocean fisheries and protects marine mammals and endangered marine species.

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A protected area designated by Congress, or by the president under the Antiquities Act, to preserve objects of historic or scientific interest on federal land.

A semi-autonomous agency in the Department of Energy that maintains the nuclear weapons stockpile, works to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and provides nuclear propulsion for the Navy.

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The Commerce Department agency that forecasts the weather through the National Weather Service, monitors oceans and climate, and manages fisheries and coastal programs.

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The Interior Department agency that manages national parks, monuments, historic sites and other units of the National Park System.

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The federal program that pays schools to serve free or low-cost lunches to students in public and nonprofit private schools.

The independent agency that funds basic research and education in science and engineering, mostly through grants to universities.

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The Defense Department intelligence agency that collects and analyzes foreign signals intelligence, such as communications, and protects U.S. government communications and information systems.

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The president's main forum for national security and foreign policy decisions, made up of senior officials such as the vice president and the secretaries of State and Defense.

The Commerce Department agency that advises the president on telecommunications policy, manages the federal government's use of radio spectrum and runs broadband grant programs.

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The independent agency that investigates civil aviation accidents and major highway, rail, pipeline and marine accidents and recommends safety improvements.

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An office in the Commerce Department's International Trade Administration that publishes official travel and tourism statistics and supports policies to bring more international visitors to the United States.

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The NOAA agency that issues the official weather forecasts, watches and warnings for the United States.

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The network of more than 570 national wildlife refuges, managed by the Fish and Wildlife Service to conserve fish, wildlife and plants.

The USDA agency that helps farmers, ranchers and forest landowners conserve soil, water and wildlife habitat through technical help and cost-sharing programs.

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The military alliance of the United States, Canada and European countries, founded in 1949, whose members pledge to defend one another if any one of them is attacked.

Changing how a Senate rule applies by a simple majority vote that sets a new precedent, instead of the two-thirds usually needed to change the rules. The Senate has used it several times since 2013, including to end filibusters on nominations.

The independent agency that licenses and regulates civilian nuclear power plants and other civilian uses of nuclear materials.

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The Labor Department agency that sets and enforces workplace safety and health standards.

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The Treasury Department office that administers and enforces economic and trade sanctions against foreign countries, groups and individuals.

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The independent agency that oversees the executive branch ethics program, including financial disclosure by senior officials.

The White House office that prepares the president's budget, oversees how agencies spend money and run programs, and reviews major federal regulations before they are issued.

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The White House office that sets the national drug control strategy and coordinates federal drug policy.

The independent agency that serves as the federal government's human resources office, managing the civil service, federal retirement and the Federal Employees Health Benefits program.

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The White House office that advises the president on science and technology and coordinates federal research policy.

The independent agency that protects federal employees from prohibited personnel practices, takes whistleblower disclosures and enforces the Hatch Act. It is separate from special counsels appointed by the Justice Department.

The Treasury Department bureau that charters, regulates and supervises national banks and federal savings associations.

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The office that leads and coordinates the 18 agencies and offices of the U.S. intelligence community. It is headed by the Director of National Intelligence.

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The White House office that develops U.S. trade policy and negotiates trade agreements with other countries.

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The Justice Department office that runs grant programs under the Violence Against Women Act.

The 1965 law that funds services helping older adults live at home, such as home-delivered and group meals, caregiver support and elder abuse prevention.

A single bill that packages many measures, often several or all of the regular appropriations bills. A smaller package of a few appropriations bills is often called a minibus.

The name commonly used for the 2025 budget reconciliation law, H.R. 1 (Public Law 119-21). It extended and changed the 2017 tax cuts, changed Medicaid and SNAP, raised the debt limit and added money for immigration enforcement and defense.

A seat with no incumbent running, because the member is retiring, running for another office or has left.

A low-income area where investors can get capital gains tax breaks for investing through a qualified opportunity fund, created by the 2017 tax law.

The submerged federal lands off U.S. coasts, generally beginning three nautical miles from shore, where the Interior Department leases areas for oil, gas, wind and minerals.

Payments the federal government actually makes in a given year, from budget authority provided that year or earlier.

The nonpartisan expert who advises the presiding officer on the chamber's rules and precedents. In the Senate the parliamentarian also advises on which provisions meet the Byrd rule.

The Commerce Department agency that examines and grants patents and registers trademarks.

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Budget rules that require new laws changing taxes or mandatory spending not to add to the deficit overall. Under the 2010 statutory version, a shortfall at the end of a session triggers automatic cuts unless Congress waives it.

Taxes on wages, shared by workers and employers, that pay for Social Security and Medicare.

The federal agency that sends American volunteers abroad to work with communities on projects such as education, health and agriculture.

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Federal grants for undergraduate students with financial need. Unlike loans, they usually do not have to be repaid.

The federal corporation that insures private-sector defined benefit pension plans and pays benefits, up to limits set by law, when a covered plan fails.

The DOT agency that regulates the safety of oil and gas pipelines and the shipping of hazardous materials.

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When the president does not sign a bill and Congress's adjournment prevents its return, the bill does not become law. Unlike a regular veto, it cannot be overridden; Congress has to pass the bill again.

In the Congress Guide →

An objection that a pending action breaks the chamber's rules. The presiding officer rules on it, and the chamber can appeal the ruling or, for some budget rules, vote to waive it.

The independent federal agency that delivers mail to every address in the country. It is expected to pay its way mainly from postage and fees rather than tax dollars.

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One of four federal agencies in the Department of Energy, such as the Bonneville Power Administration, that sell electricity generated mostly at federal dams.

When federal law overrides a state or local law on the same subject, under the Constitution's Supremacy Clause.

The vice president, under the Constitution. The vice president can preside over the Senate and votes only to break a tie.

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The senator elected to preside over the Senate when the vice president is absent, by custom usually the longest-serving senator of the majority party. The president pro tempore is third in line to the presidency.

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A House motion that ends debate and amendments and brings the pending question to an immediate vote. Defeating it on a rule lets opponents offer an alternative.

An election in which voters choose a party's nominee for the general election. States set their own rules and dates.

A law that applies to specific people or entities rather than the public, such as one resolving an individual's immigration case or claim against the government.

The right of an individual to sue to enforce a law, rather than leaving enforcement to the government alone.

A brief meeting of the House or Senate, often lasting minutes, where usually no business is done. It lets a chamber avoid adjourning for more than three days without the other's consent and can block recess appointments.

The federal public health service led by the Surgeon General. Its Commissioned Corps is a uniformed service of health professionals who work in federal agencies and respond to public health emergencies.

The 1944 law that is the basis for most federal public health programs, including the work of the CDC and the NIH, community health centers and many health grants.

Land owned by the federal government, such as national forests, parks, wildlife refuges and Bureau of Land Management land.

A bill or joint resolution that has become law and applies to the public generally. It is numbered by Congress and order of enactment: Public Law 119-21 was the 21st enacted by the 119th Congress.

In the Congress Guide →

A program that forgives the rest of a borrower's federal Direct Loans after 120 qualifying monthly payments made while working full time for a government or a qualifying nonprofit employer.

The minimum number of members who must be present to do business. Under the Constitution it is a majority of each chamber; a quorum call checks whether enough members are present.

In the Congress Guide →

The independent agency that runs retirement, disability, unemployment and sickness benefit programs for railroad workers and their families.

Dividing the 435 House seats among the states again after each census, based on population.

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An appointment the president makes while the Senate is in recess, without Senate confirmation. It lasts until the end of the Senate's next session.

In the Congress Guide →

Redrawing the boundaries of congressional and state legislative districts, usually after each census, so districts have about equal populations.

When a committee sends a bill back to the full chamber with its recommendation, often with amendments and a written report, so it can be considered on the floor.

In the Congress Guide →

A law that cancels money Congress previously provided. The president can propose rescissions under the Impoundment Control Act, but they take effect only if Congress passes them.

The member of the House who represents Puerto Rico, elected to a four-year term. Like the delegates, the resident commissioner can serve on committees but cannot vote on passing bills.

The USDA agency that runs the federal crop insurance program with private insurance companies.

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A vote in which each member's position, Yea, Nay, Present or Not Voting, is recorded by name. The House usually votes electronically; in the Senate the clerk calls each senator's name.

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The process agencies use to write regulations. Under the Administrative Procedure Act, an agency usually publishes a proposed rule, takes public comments and then issues a final rule.

The House committee that writes the special rules setting the terms of debate and amendment for most major bills before they reach the floor.

In the Congress Guide →

A second election between the top finishers, held when no candidate wins the share of the vote required, often a majority.

The USDA agency that makes and guarantees loans and grants for housing and community facilities, such as clinics and fire stations, in rural areas.

The USDA agency that makes loans and grants for rural electricity, water and wastewater systems, telecommunications and broadband.

The federal law that sets standards for drinking water from public water systems and protects underground sources of drinking water.

A provision that protects a person or business from liability or penalties if they meet certain conditions.

The federal program that pays schools to serve free or low-cost breakfasts to students.

The DHS agency that protects the president, the vice president, their families and other leaders, and investigates financial crimes such as counterfeiting.

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The Senate officer who keeps the Senate's records, oversees its legislative clerks and parliamentary staff, and manages its finances.

The provision of the Communications Act, enacted in 1996, that generally shields websites and online platforms from liability for content their users post and for moderating it in good faith.

The independent agency that regulates the stock and bond markets, investment advisers and the financial disclosures of public companies to protect investors.

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The independent agency that keeps a list of men who could be drafted if Congress and the president brought back a military draft.

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One of three groups of senators whose six-year terms end in the same year, so about a third of the Senate is elected every two years. Class II seats are on the ballot in 2026.

The Senate committee in charge of taxes, tariffs, Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid.

In the Congress Guide →

The Senate's list of bills and resolutions eligible for floor consideration. Being placed on the calendar does not guarantee a vote.

A statement of opinion by Congress or by one chamber. It expresses a view but does not change the law.

Automatic, across-the-board spending cuts that take effect when spending goes over limits set by law, or when new laws add to the deficit under statutory PAYGO.

The chief law enforcement and protocol officer of each chamber, who keeps order, oversees security with the Capitol Police and can be directed to bring absent members to the floor.

A law that protects active-duty service members in civil matters, such as capping interest on debts taken on before service and limiting evictions and default judgments.

More than half of the members voting. Most questions in Congress are decided by a simple majority.

A measure, labeled H.Res. or S.Res., adopted by one chamber alone. It is used for the chamber's own rules and business or to state its views, and does not have the force of law.

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The independent agency that supports small businesses through loan guarantees, disaster loans, counseling and help winning federal contracts.

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A museum, education and research complex established by Congress in 1846, funded mostly by federal appropriations. It includes the National Zoo and museums in Washington, D.C., and New York.

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The federal program that pays monthly benefits to retired workers, people with disabilities and survivors of deceased workers, funded mainly by payroll taxes.

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The 1935 law that created Social Security. Titles added later also contain Medicare, Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income and CHIP.

The independent agency that runs Social Security retirement, survivors and disability insurance and the Supplemental Security Income program.

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The part of Social Security that pays monthly benefits to people who worked and paid Social Security taxes but can no longer work because of a severe disability.

The nine-digit number the Social Security Administration issues to track a person's earnings for benefits, now also widely used as an identifier.

The newest branch of the armed forces, created in 2019 within the Department of the Air Force to organize, train and equip forces for military operations in space.

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The presiding officer of the House, elected by the full House and usually the leader of the majority party. The Speaker is second in line to the presidency, after the vice president.

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A member chosen by the Speaker to preside over the House temporarily.

An election held outside the regular schedule to fill a vacant seat. House vacancies can be filled only this way; for the Senate, most states let the governor appoint someone until it is held.

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A House resolution, written by the Rules Committee, that sets how long a bill will be debated and which amendments may be offered. The House adopts the rule before taking up the bill.

A federal nutrition program that provides healthy foods, nutrition education and health referrals to low-income pregnant and postpartum women, infants and children up to age 5.

The main federal disaster law. It lets the president declare major disasters and emergencies, which makes federal aid available through FEMA.

The deadline for bringing a lawsuit or filing criminal charges. Once it passes, a case generally cannot be brought.

The HHS agency that funds mental health and addiction prevention, treatment and recovery services, including the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

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The 1980 federal law, formally CERCLA, that requires cleanup of the most contaminated hazardous waste sites and makes those responsible for the pollution pay for it.

A vote threshold higher than a simple majority, such as the three-fifths needed for cloture in the Senate or the two-thirds needed to override a veto.

Extra funding passed after the regular appropriations, usually for urgent needs such as disaster relief or military operations.

The federal food assistance program, formerly called food stamps, that gives low-income households monthly benefits on a debit-like card to buy groceries.

A monthly cash benefit for people with very low income and savings who are 65 or older, blind or disabled. It is paid from general tax revenue, not Social Security taxes.

The highest federal court. Its nine justices, appointed for life, hear appeals on federal law and the Constitution, and its decisions bind all other courts on those questions.

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The independent agency that regulates freight rail rates and service, railroad mergers and some other surface transportation.

The head of the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps and the nation's leading spokesperson on public health, nominated by the president and confirmed by the Senate.

A House fast track for less contested bills: 40 minutes of debate, no floor amendments and a two-thirds vote of those voting to pass.

In the Congress Guide →

The 1979 law that governs unofficial U.S. relations with Taiwan and provides for supplying Taiwan with arms for its self-defense.

A tax on imported goods, paid to U.S. Customs and Border Protection by the company or person importing them.

A federal court where taxpayers can challenge IRS decisions about how much tax they owe before paying it.

An amount subtracted directly from the tax a person or business owes. A refundable credit is paid out even when it is larger than the tax owed.

The 2017 tax law that lowered individual and corporate income tax rates, nearly doubled the standard deduction and expanded the Child Tax Credit. Many of its individual provisions were originally set to expire after 2025.

An amount subtracted from income before tax is figured, which lowers the tax owed by the deduction times the taxpayer's tax rate.

An independent office within the IRS that helps taxpayers resolve problems with the IRS and recommends changes to prevent them.

A federal block grant to states for cash assistance and other help for low-income families with children, with work requirements and time limits.

A temporary immigration status that lets people from countries the Homeland Security Secretary designates, because of armed conflict, disaster or other extraordinary conditions, live and work in the United States.

A federally owned corporation created in 1933 that generates and sells electricity in Tennessee and parts of six nearby states and manages the Tennessee River system.

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The retirement savings and investment plan for federal employees and members of the uniformed services, similar to a 401(k).

The USDA's estimate of the cost of a nutritious, low-cost diet for a family of four. It sets the maximum SNAP benefit.

In the Senate, a vote cast by the vice president to break a tie. In the House, a tie means the question fails.

In the Congress Guide →

The federal law that lets the EPA review and regulate chemicals made in or imported into the United States.

The amount by which the value of a country's imports is larger than the value of its exports. It is different from the federal budget deficit.

The DHS agency that screens passengers and baggage at airports and sets security rules for other kinds of transportation.

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A formal agreement with another country that the president negotiates. The Senate must approve it by a two-thirds vote of senators present before the president can ratify it.

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The health care program for active-duty and retired service members and their families, run by the Defense Health Agency.

A federal account that holds money set aside by law for a specific purpose, such as Social Security benefits or highways, mostly from dedicated taxes.

A way to act without a vote when no member objects. The Senate does much of its business this way, from scheduling debate to passing noncontroversial bills; a single objection blocks it.

The federal law that sets out the criminal code and court-martial system for members of the armed forces.

The House calendar for bills that raise revenue or spend money. Committees' reported bills are listed there and taken up on the floor when leaders schedule them.

The international organization of 193 member states, founded in 1945, that works on peace and security, human rights and development. The United States is one of five permanent members of its Security Council.

The trade agreement among the United States, Mexico and Canada that replaced NAFTA in 2020.

A fund overseen by the FCC that helps pay for phone and broadband service in rural areas and for low-income households, schools, libraries and rural health providers, financed by fees on telecom companies.

A charge paid by people or businesses for a specific government service or benefit, such as the fees drug makers pay the FDA to review applications.

A mortgage made by a private lender and partly guaranteed by the Department of Veterans Affairs, which lets eligible veterans and service members buy a home, often with no down payment.

The part of the VA that handles benefits such as disability compensation, pensions, the GI Bill, home loans and vocational rehabilitation.

The VA program, created by the MISSION Act of 2018, that pays for eligible veterans to see private doctors and other community providers, for example when VA care involves long waits or drives.

The part of the VA that runs its health care system, the largest integrated health care system in the country, with medical centers and clinics nationwide.

The president's rejection of a bill passed by Congress, returned with a message giving the reasons. Congress can override a veto by a two-thirds vote in each chamber.

In the Congress Guide →

A vote by Congress to make a vetoed bill law anyway. It takes two-thirds of the members voting in both the House and the Senate, recorded by name.

In the Congress Guide →

A 1994 law, renewed several times, that funds programs to prevent and respond to domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence and stalking.

A vote where members call out aye or no together and the presiding officer judges which side is louder. It records no names, so it does not show how individual members voted.

In the Congress Guide →

The 1965 law that bans racial discrimination in voting, including practices that deny or dilute the votes of racial and language minorities.

The Labor Department office that enforces federal minimum wage, overtime, child labor and family and medical leave laws.

A 1973 law that requires the president to notify Congress within 48 hours of sending forces into hostilities and to end their use within 60 days unless Congress authorizes it, with up to 30 more days to withdraw.

The House committee in charge of taxes, tariffs, Social Security and parts of Medicare. Under the Constitution, revenue bills must start in the House.

In the Congress Guide →

A party leader in the House or Senate who counts votes and works to keep the party's members together on key votes. Each party has a whip in each chamber.

Federal land that Congress has designated under the Wilderness Act of 1964 to be kept in its natural state, where roads, motor vehicles and most development are not allowed.

An international institution that lends to and makes grants to developing countries for projects such as roads, schools and health care. The United States is its largest shareholder.

The United Nations agency for international public health. The United States gave notice in January 2025 that it would withdraw.

The international organization that sets rules for trade among its members and settles trade disputes between them.