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Legislatures and Elections
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| News Highlights: Legislatures & Elections | Standing Committees | A-Z Issues & NCSL Contacts | Bill Information | Other Resources |
Internet Voting
While the idea of conducting elections entirely via the Internet is not ready for prime-time, many states are making advances in that direction by allowing certain voters to submit their absentee ballots electronically. Currently, 31 states allow certain voters to return absentee ballots electronically. More
NCSL's May Elections Newsletter
This issue discusses the pros, cons, costs and practical considerations for election day registration. Also, find out more about online lookup tools to help voters find information about polling places, registration status, and absentee ballot status. More
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| NCSL Programs Overview | Legislatures: Organization, Procedure & Facilities | Legislator & Legislative Staff Information | Elections & Campaigns | Redistricting | Ethics |
| Legislative Leaders | Women's Legislative Network | International Programs | Trust for Representative Democracy | Legislators Back to School Program |
Overview
Legislative organization and procedure represent the structural backbone of any state legislature. There is, however, no "off the shelf" formula for creating a state legislature, and legislative assemblies in the United States illustrate the wide variety of organizational patterns. For example:
- They vary in size from 49 to 424.
- They may have one or two chambers.
- Session length may be extremely short or virtually unlimited.
- Each legislative chamber may determine its own rules of procedure. Parliamentary procedure provide a foundation for effective conduct of legislative business. Clearly articulated parliamentary procedure and effective operation of committees contribute to overall legislative efficiency.
- Every occupation has its special jargon, and legislatures are no exception. NCSL offers a glossary of many terms used in legislative circles
Often called the "temples of democracy," state capitols or state houses are the places where legislatures tend to the business of the people. The beauty and grandeur of these buildings add an air of importance to the work that takes place there. State legislatures, however, face great expectations for public access to government services, so capitols must be maintained, upgraded to accommodate current technology, and secured to ensure that building occupants and the public are safe. The significance of these efforts serves as a reminder of the balance that must be perpetuated in maintaining public safety for legislators and staff while also encouraging citizen participation in the legislative process.
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| ©2013 National Conference of State Legislatures. All Rights Reserved. |
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