2021 US Code Title 2: The Congress
Exploring the 2021 US Code Title 2: The Congress
Title 2 of the United States Code, titled “The Congress,” is a comprehensive compilation of laws that govern various aspects of the legislative branch of the U.S. government. In this article, we’ll explore the key chapters and sections within Title 2, shedding light on the intricate workings of the U.S. Congress and its related institutions.
Chapter 1 – Election of Senators and Representatives (Sections 1 – 9)
This chapter outlines the process of electing Senators and Representatives to the U.S. Congress. It includes provisions related to the qualifications and eligibility of candidates, the timing of elections, and the certification of election results. The chapter serves as a foundational guide for the democratic principles upon which the U.S. government is built.
Chapter 2 – Organization of Congress (Sections 21 – 30b)
Chapter 2 delves into the organizational structure of Congress. It covers the establishment of the House of Representatives and the Senate, the selection of their respective leaders, and the rules governing their internal operations. This chapter ensures that Congress functions efficiently and effectively.
Chapter 3 – Compensation and Allowances of Members (Sections 31 – 59h)
This chapter addresses the compensation and allowances provided to Members of Congress. It outlines the salary structures, benefits, and allowances available to Senators and Representatives, as well as the rules governing these payments.
Chapter 4 – Officers and Employees of Senate and House of Representatives (Sections 60 – 130l)
Chapter 4 establishes the roles and responsibilities of officers and employees who support the Senate and the House of Representatives. It covers various positions, from the Sergeant-at-Arms to committee staff, and their duties within the legislative process.
Chapter 5 – Library of Congress (Sections 131 – 185)
The Library of Congress plays a vital role in providing research support and preserving the nation’s intellectual heritage. This chapter outlines the governance and functions of the Library, emphasizing the importance of information access and preservation.
Chapter 6 – Congressional and Committee Procedure; Investigations (Sections 190 – 199)
Chapter 6 discusses the procedures and protocols followed by Congress and its committees. It also addresses the authority of Congress to conduct investigations, which is crucial for oversight and the legislative process.
Chapter 7 – Contested Elections (Sections 201 – 226)
Contested Elections provides a framework for resolving disputes over the outcomes of congressional elections. This chapter ensures that electoral processes remain fair and transparent.
Chapter 8 – Federal Corrupt Practices (Sections 241 – 256)
Chapter 8 deals with federal laws related to corrupt practices in election campaigns, such as bribery and illegal campaign contributions. These regulations are essential for maintaining the integrity of the electoral process.
Chapter 8A – Regulation of Lobbying (Sections 261 – 270)
This chapter addresses lobbying activities within Congress, ensuring transparency in the interactions between lawmakers and lobbyists. It establishes rules and reporting requirements for lobbyists.
Chapter 9 – Office of Legislative Counsel (Sections 271 – 282e)
The Office of Legislative Counsel provides legal drafting and advisory services to Congress. This chapter outlines the office’s functions and responsibilities in assisting lawmakers in crafting legislation.
Chapter 9A – Office of Law Revision Counsel (Sections 285 – 285g)
The Office of Law Revision Counsel plays a critical role in the legislative process by maintaining and updating the United States Code. This chapter defines the responsibilities of this office.
Chapter 9B – Legislative Classification Office (Sections 286 – 286g)
The Legislative Classification Office assists in classifying legislation. This chapter outlines its duties and contributions to the legislative process.
Chapter 9C – Office of Parliamentarian of House of Representatives (Sections 287 – 287d)
The Office of Parliamentarian in the House of Representatives ensures that legislative proceedings adhere to parliamentary rules. This chapter delineates its role in maintaining procedural integrity.
Chapter 9D – Office of Senate Legal Counsel (Sections 288 – 288n)
The Office of Senate Legal Counsel provides legal representation to the Senate. This chapter defines the office’s functions and responsibilities in safeguarding Senate interests.
Chapter 10 – Classification of Employees of House of Representatives (Sections 291 – 303)
Chapter 10 categorizes employees within the House of Representatives, addressing issues related to their employment status and classification.
Chapter 10A – Payroll Administration in House of Representatives (Sections 331 – 336)
This chapter establishes payroll administration procedures for House of Representatives employees, ensuring accurate compensation and benefits.
Chapter 11 – Citizens’ Commission on Public Service and Compensation (Sections 351 – 364)
The Citizens’ Commission on Public Service and Compensation examines and advises on public service and compensation issues. This chapter outlines its role in enhancing government efficiency.
Chapter 12 – Contested Elections (Sections 381 – 396)
Similar to Chapter 7, this chapter addresses contested elections but focuses on procedures specific to the House of Representatives.
Chapter 13 – Joint Committee on Congressional Operations (Sections 411 – 417)
The Joint Committee on Congressional Operations plays a critical role in overseeing legislative branch operations. This chapter delineates its responsibilities in maintaining efficiency and transparency.
Chapter 14 – Federal Election Campaigns (Sections 431 – 457)
Chapter 14 establishes regulations governing federal election campaigns, including campaign finance, contributions, and reporting requirements.
Chapter 15 – Office of Technology Assessment (Sections 471 – 481)
The Office of Technology Assessment assists Congress in making informed decisions on technology-related issues. This chapter defines its role in providing unbiased expertise.
Chapter 16 – Congressional Mailing Standards (Sections 501 – 506)
Chapter 16 outlines standards and regulations for congressional mailings, ensuring transparency and accountability in communication with constituents.
Chapter 17 – Congressional Budget Office (Sections 601 – 613)
The Congressional Budget Office plays a crucial role in assessing the financial implications of legislation. This chapter outlines its duties in supporting informed decision-making.
Chapter 17A – Congressional Budget and Fiscal Operations (Sections 621 – 665e)
Chapter 17A addresses budget and fiscal operations in Congress, ensuring responsible financial management.
Chapter 17B – Impoundment Control (Sections 681 – 692)
This chapter provides a framework for controlling the impoundment of funds by the executive branch, ensuring that appropriated funds are spent as intended by Congress.
Chapter 18 – Legislative Personnel Financial Disclosure Requirements (Sections 701 – 709)
Chapter 18 establishes financial disclosure requirements for legislative personnel, promoting transparency and ethics in government service.
Chapter 19 – Congressional Award Program (Sections 801 – 817c)
The Congressional Award Program encourages youth involvement and personal development. This chapter defines its role in recognizing outstanding achievements.
Chapter 19A – John Heinz Competitive Excellence Award (Sections 831 – 831)
This chapter establishes the John Heinz Competitive Excellence Award to recognize excellence in government performance.
Chapter 20 – Emergency Powers to Eliminate Budget Deficits (Sections 900 – 922)
Chapter 20 outlines the emergency powers available to Congress to address budget deficits swiftly.
Chapter 20A – Statutory Pay-as-You-Go (Sections 931 – 939)
This chapter establishes the Statutory Pay-as-You-Go framework, aiming to control government spending and reduce budget deficits.
Chapter 21 – Civic Achievement Award Program in Honor of Office of Speaker of the House of Representatives (Sections 1001 – 1004
)
The Civic Achievement Award Program recognizes civic achievements and contributions to the community.
Chapter 22 – John C. Stennis Center for Public Service Training and Development (Sections 1101 – 1110)
This chapter establishes the John C. Stennis Center, providing training and development opportunities for public servants.
Chapter 22A – Open World Leadership Center (Sections 1151 – 1151)
The Open World Leadership Center promotes understanding and cooperation between the United States and Russia.
Chapter 22B – Hunger Fellowship Program (Sections 1161 – 1161)
This chapter establishes the Hunger Fellowship Program to address issues related to hunger and malnutrition.
Chapter 23 – Government Employee Rights (Sections 1201 – 1224)
Chapter 23 outlines the rights and protections afforded to government employees, ensuring fair treatment within the federal workforce.
Chapter 24 – Congressional Accountability (Sections 1301 – 1438)
This chapter addresses congressional accountability, including ethics, campaign finance, and other measures to maintain integrity in the legislative process.
Chapter 25 – Unfunded Mandates Reform (Sections 1501 – 1571)
The Unfunded Mandates Reform Act seeks to limit the imposition of unfunded mandates on state, local, and tribal governments, promoting fiscal responsibility.
Chapter 26 – Disclosure of Lobbying Activities (Sections 1601 – 1614)
This chapter addresses the disclosure of lobbying activities, enhancing transparency in interactions between lawmakers and lobbyists.
Chapter 27 – Sound Recording Preservation by the Library of Congress (Sections 1701 – 1743)
Chapter 27 focuses on sound recording preservation efforts by the Library of Congress, ensuring the preservation of cultural heritage.
Chapter 28 – Architect of the Capitol (Sections 1801 – 1881d)
The Architect of the Capitol is responsible for the maintenance and preservation of the Capitol complex. This chapter outlines the office’s duties and responsibilities.
Chapter 29 – Capitol Police (Sections 1901 – 1982)
The Capitol Police ensure the safety and security of the Capitol complex. This chapter defines their roles and authority.
Chapter 30 – Operation and Maintenance of Capitol Complex (Sections 2001 – 2186)
Chapter 30 addresses the operation and maintenance of the Capitol complex, covering a wide range of logistical and administrative matters.
Chapter 31 – Capitol Visitor Center (Sections 2201 – 2281)
The Capitol Visitor Center provides essential services to tourists and visitors. This chapter outlines its functions and operations.
Chapter 41 – Congressional Officers and Administration (Sections 4101 – 4132)
Chapter 41 deals with congressional officers and administration, ensuring the efficient functioning of various offices and entities.
Chapter 43 – Congressional Committees (Sections 4301 – 4338)
This chapter defines the roles, responsibilities, and procedures of congressional committees, which play a crucial role in the legislative process.
Chapter 45 – Congressional Pay and Benefits (Sections 4501 – 4595)
Chapter 45 addresses congressional pay and benefits, ensuring that Members of Congress are compensated fairly and transparently.
Chapter 47 – Congressional Ethics (Sections 4701 – 4728)
Ethical conduct is paramount in Congress. Chapter 47 establishes ethical guidelines and procedures for Members of Congress.
Chapter 49 – Congressional Pages (Sections 4901 – 4931)
Congressional Pages play a unique role in supporting legislative activities. This chapter outlines their responsibilities and regulations.
Chapter 51 – House of Representatives Leadership (Sections 5101 – 5162)
Chapter 51 defines the leadership positions within the House of Representatives and their roles in guiding legislative priorities.
Chapter 53 – House of Representatives Members (Sections 5301 – 5352)
This chapter addresses the roles, responsibilities, and benefits of Members of the House of Representatives.
Chapter 55 – House of Representatives Officers and Administration (Sections 5501 – 5624)
Chapter 55 defines the roles and functions of officers and administrative entities within the House of Representatives.
Chapter 61 – Senate Leadership (Sections 6101 – 6160)
Chapter 61 outlines the leadership positions within the Senate and their roles in shaping legislative outcomes.
Chapter 63 – Senate Members (Sections 6301 – 6320)
This chapter addresses the roles, responsibilities, and benefits of Senators in the U.S. Senate.
Chapter 65 – Senate Officers and Administration (Sections 6501 – 6654)
Chapter 65 defines the roles and functions of officers and administrative entities within the U.S. Senate.
Title 2 of the United States Code, “The Congress,” is a comprehensive and essential resource that governs every aspect of the legislative branch’s operations. From the election of Senators and Representatives to the rules of congressional ethics, this title ensures that the U.S. Congress functions effectively and transparently, serving the interests of the American people. Its chapters and sections collectively constitute the legal framework that underpins the workings of one of the most critical branches of the U.S. government.