Legal Definitions - regular session

A regular session refers to the standard, scheduled period during which a legislative body convenes to conduct its ordinary business. These sessions are typically mandated by a constitution or statute, occur at predetermined intervals (e.g., annually or biennially), and have a broad agenda covering legislation, budget approvals, and oversight. They are distinct from special or extraordinary sessions, which are called for specific, urgent purposes outside of the normal schedule.

• Example 1: The U.S. Congress

  The United States Congress typically begins its regular session in early January each year. During this time, members of the House of Representatives and the Senate introduce and debate a wide range of bills, vote on federal budgets, conduct oversight of government agencies, and address national policy issues. This period is the primary time for the legislative branch to fulfill its constitutional duties.

  Explanation: This illustrates a regular session because it is a constitutionally mandated, annually scheduled period for Congress to conduct its routine legislative and oversight functions, rather than being called for a specific, emergency issue.

• Example 2: A State Legislature

  In many states, the state legislature holds a regular session annually, often beginning in winter and concluding in spring. For instance, a state might have a regular session from January through April, dedicated to passing new state laws, approving the state budget for the upcoming fiscal year, and considering amendments to existing statutes.

  Explanation: This example highlights a regular session as it describes a fixed, recurring period during which the state's lawmakers systematically address the state's general legislative agenda and budget, as opposed to an unscheduled meeting for a crisis.

• Example 3: A Parliamentary Body

  The Parliament of Canada convenes for regular sessions throughout the year, as outlined in its procedural rules. During these sessions, Members of Parliament debate government proposals, scrutinize the actions of the executive branch, vote on legislation, and discuss matters of national importance. These routine sittings are distinct from any emergency sittings that might be called for an unforeseen crisis.

  Explanation: This demonstrates a regular session because it refers to the routine, scheduled meetings of the parliamentary body where it conducts its standard legislative and oversight duties, rather than an ad-hoc gathering for an exceptional event.