Question 1

Describe how a bill becomes a state law. Consider the following questions: Who writes bills? What are the rules for debate on the floor? What are some of the powers of the governor throughout this process?

Accepted Answer

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Question 2

Since the lieutenant governor is elected in a statewide election, he or she represents the interests of the whole state rather than a smaller geographic constituency.

Accepted Answer

The lieutenant governor is elected by the entire state, unlike state senators and representatives who represent smaller districts or constituencies. Therefore, the lieutenant governor has a broader responsibility to serve and represent the interests of the entire state.

Question 3

Members of the Texas House of Representatives are permitted to speak on the House floor for as long as they wish.

Accepted Answer

Members of the Texas House of Representatives are subject to rules that limit the duration of their speeches, unlike the U.S. Senate where the filibuster can allow for extended speeches.

Question 4

Describe the structure and organization of the Texas legislature. Consider the following questions: What are some of the effects of bicameralism? What are committees, and what are their roles? When is the Texas legislature in regular session?

Accepted Answer

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Question 5

Does the increase in partisanship put the minority party at a bigger disadvantage when it comes to influencing legislation? Do the Texas legislature's presiding officers have too much power?

Accepted Answer

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Question 6

By focusing on some things and not others, the media can shape the legislative agenda and what becomes legal or illegal in Texas.

Accepted Answer

The media has the power to highlight certain issues and events, which can in turn influence public opinion and impact the legislative agenda. This can ultimately affect what laws are passed or fail to pass in Texas.

Question 7

In the Senate, the Speaker controls legislative debate by selecting who speaks and how long the debate will last.

Accepted Answer

The Senate does not have a Speaker. The role of controlling debate is done by the presiding officer, who is typically the Vice President of the United States or a President pro tempore elected by the Senate. The presiding officer does have some control over debate, but does not have the same level of control as a Speaker in the House of Representatives.

Question 8

Contrast the leadership and committee structure of the Texas House with that of the Texas Senate.

Accepted Answer

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Question 9

In Texas, both the lieutenant governor and the Speaker of the House are elected in statewide elections.

Accepted Answer

In Texas, the lieutenant governor is elected in a statewide election, but the Speaker of the House is elected by the members of the Texas House of Representatives, not by a statewide vote.

Quiz 7: The Legislature