Who makes federal laws?

Federal laws are made by Congress, which is the legislative branch of the United States government. Congress is a bicameral body comprised of two chambers: the Senate and the House of Representatives. Members of both chambers are elected by the public and are responsible for proposing, debating, and voting on legislation.

The process of making federal law typically begins with a proposal or a bill, which must be approved by both the Senate and the House. After both chambers agree on the final version of the bill, it is sent to the President for approval or veto. This structure is vital for maintaining a system of checks and balances where no single branch of government becomes too powerful.

In contrast to Congress, the judiciary interprets laws but does not create them, and the President has the power to veto legislation but does not make laws directly. State legislatures create state laws, which are separate from federal laws made by Congress.