Federal and State Legislative Process
SJCS has a long, proud tradition of advocacy to advance the civil rights of people with disabilities. One of the primary ways to influence issues and legislation is to contact federal and state legislators. At times, you may do so as an individual and, at other times, you may want to join forces with an advocacy organization. Following is a brief description of our elective legislative bodies at the federal and state levels and links for further information on the legislative process and contacting your legislator. Remember that your local officials—e.g., city, school board and neighborhood action committees—can also exert influence and allocate resources in equitable ways.
United States Legislative Process
The United States Congress consists of two chambers—the Senate and the House of Representatives. Each of the 435 members of the House of Representatives represents a district (the number based on state population) and serves a two-year term. The 100 Senators serve six-year terms, with two senators per state regardless of population. As part of the legislative process, bills are introduced, worked through a committee and, if passed, signed into law by the President. Once signed into Public Law, it is assigned a PL number and thereafter referred to as an Act. Visit government websites for details on the legislative process, and how to contact your senators and representatives.
State Legislative Process (SJCS Locations)
District of Columbia
The Council of the District of Columbia has 13 members elected for a four-year term functioning through a system of 11 standing committees. The Mayor, elected for a four-year term, represents the executive branch. The District is represented in Congress by one (non-voting) delegate to the House of Representatives. To learn more about the legislative process and/or to contact your council member, congressional delegate or Mayor, visit the District of Columbia Government website.
Pennsylvania
The Pennsylvania General Assembly consists of the Senate and the House of Representatives, comprised of 50 Senators elected for a four-year term and 203 Representatives elected for a two-year term. The General Assembly meets at noon on the first Tuesday of January and then regularly throughout the year in Harrisburg. To learn more about the legislative process and/or contact Pennsylvania state representatives, visit the Pennsylvania Government website.
Tennessee
The Tennessee General Assembly consists of the Senate and House of Representatives, comprised of 33 Senators elected for a four-year term and 99 Representatives elected for a two-year term. The General Assembly is normally in session from mid-January through Mid-June in Nashville. To learn more about the legislative process and/or to contact Tennessee state representatives, visit the Tennessee Government website.
Virginia
The Virginia General Assembly consists of the Senate and the House of Delegates, comprised of 40 Senators elected for a four-year term and 100 Delegates elected for a two-year term. The General Assembly session runs from January through March in Richmond. To learn more about the legislative process and/or to contact Virginia state representatives, visit the Virginia Government website.
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