Article 1 of the United States Constitution establishes the legislative branch of the federal government, known as Congress, which consists of two chambers: the Senate and the House of Representatives
. It vests all legislative powers in Congress, meaning that only Congress has the authority to make laws, not the President or the Supreme Court
. Key features of Article 1 include:
- Structure and Composition : Congress is bicameral, with the House of Representatives having members elected every two years based on state population, and the Senate having two senators from each state serving six-year terms
- Powers of Congress : Article 1 grants Congress enumerated powers such as taxing, regulating commerce, coining money, declaring war, raising armies and navies, establishing post offices, and governing the federal district (Washington, D.C.)
- Legislative Process : It outlines the procedure for passing laws, requiring bills to be approved by both houses and subject to presidential veto power, which Congress can override with a two-thirds majority
- Limits on Powers : Article 1 places restrictions on Congress and the states to prevent abuses of power, such as prohibiting bills of attainder and limiting states’ ability to engage in war or impose certain taxes
- Necessary and Proper Clause : Also known as the Elastic Clause, it gives Congress flexibility to pass laws needed to execute its enumerated powers effectively
- Separation of Powers : By vesting legislative power solely in Congress, Article 1 establishes a clear separation between the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of government
Overall, Article 1 is the longest and foundational article of the Constitution, reflecting the Framers’ intent that Congress be the primary lawmaking body and the branch closest to the people
