What is a bicameral legislature
A bicameral legislature is a type of legislative system that consists of two separate chambers or houses. In such a system, the legislative power is divided between two distinct bodies that work together to make and pass laws. The two chambers often have different functions and responsibilities.
Typically, one chamber is known as the lower house or the house of representatives, and the other chamber is the upper house or the senate. The members of each chamber may have different qualifications, terms of office, and represent different constituencies.
The purpose of having a bicameral legislature is to provide checks and balances within the legislative process and ensure a more balanced representation of various interests. This system can help prevent the concentration of power in one chamber, promote discussion and debate, and allow for a more thorough examination of proposed legislation.
Examples of countries with bicameral legislatures include the United States (with the House of Representatives and the Senate), the United Kingdom (with the House of Commons and the House of Lords), and Australia (with the House of Representatives and the Senate).