By Brenda Erickson

Legislatures are convening. 

Pomp and circumstance amidst a whirlwind of other activities describes the opening of a legislative session.

It is customary for each house of a legislature to follow an order of business, and opening day is no exception. These are the first steps by which a group of newly elected citizens is transformed into an official, organized legislature.

A typical order of business for the first day of legislative session is:

1. Presentation of election certificates by the members-elect.
2. Oath of office.
3. Call of the roll.
4. Election of the presiding officer.
5. Election of a president pro tem or speaker pro tem.
6. Selection of the secretary or clerk.
7. Adoption of chamber rules.
8. Notification of the other body that the chamber has organized.

Why are these steps important?

Steps 1-3 establish who may officially serve as a legislator. Constitutions give authority to each legislative chamber to “determine the qualifications and elections” of its members.

Steps 4-5 establish leadership. Every assembly meets with the implied understanding that it will be governed and controlled. Typically, legislative chambers are led by their respective president of the senate, speaker of the house, majority leaders, minority leaders or other leaders designated by the body.

Step 6 establishes who will record the transaction of business as required by constitution. This important task typically is the responsibility of the clerk or secretary.

Step 7 provides the tools for effective group action. A chamber’s rules provide a framework within which the body can consider issues and resolve disputes. They ensure and balance the rights of members.  They exist to help create of public policy in an open, balanced and efficient manner.

Step 8 is a signal to “let the work begin.” Most U.S. legislatures are bicameral, consisting of a senate and a house or assembly. Once officially organized, the chambers are ready to commence work.

Now, let bills be introduced, committee hearings begin and new laws be enacted. Legislatures are in session!

Brenda Erickson is a program principal in NCSL’s Legislative Staff Service Program.

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