Glossary

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Constitution

The written instrument embodying the fundamental principles of the state that establishes power and duties of the government and guarantees certain rights to the people.

Convene

To meet in formal legislative session.

Debate

To argue the merits of a bill, for and against.

Decorum

Appropriate behavior and conduct.

District

That area of the state represented by a legislator, determined on the basis of population.

Gallery

The seating area for visitors located above the chambers (on the fifth floor of the Capitol).

Governor

The chief executive of the State.

Journal

The official record of the proceedings of the Senate or the House of Representatives.

Law

The final product of the legislative process. It is the end result of the introduction of a bill, passage by both houses, its approval by the Governor (or the overriding of the Governor's veto by the legislature), and its recording by the Secretary of State.

Legislator

A member of the legislature.

Lobbyist

A person who, voluntarily or for a fee, represents himself or herself, an individual, organization, or entity before the legislature. The term derives from the fact that lobbyists usually stay in the areas (lobbies) next to the chambers of the Senate and the House of Representatives, either to meet legislators as they walk to and from the chambers or await legislative action which might affect their interest.

Majority party

The political party having the most seats in a house.

Minority party

The political party having the fewest seats in a house.

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