What is the difference between a term of Congress and a session of Congress?
A term of Congress is two years in duration commencing on January 3rd of each
odd-numbered year. A session of Congress, however, is the annual meeting with
each term being divided into two sessions. When Congress is actually meeting,
it is said to be "in session."
When is the House in session?
A new Congress begins at noon January 3 of each odd-numbered year following
a general election, unless it designates a different day by law. A Congress
lasts for two years, with each year constituting a separate session. The
Legislative Reorganization Act of 1970 requires Congress to adjourn sine die
no later than July 31 of each year unless there is a declared war, or unless
Congress otherwise provides. In odd-numbered years, the Congress must take
an August recess if it fails to adjourn by July 31. Neither the House nor
the Senate may adjourn for more than three days (excluding Saturdays,
Sundays, and holidays) without the concurrence of the other Chamber. It has
also become a common practice for the Congress to adjourn after making
provision for the House and Senate leaders to summon the Congress back into
session in emergency circumstances. Similarly, the Constitution grants the
President the authority to summon the Congress for a special session if
circumstances require.
When does a bill become "dead" or no longer open to consideration?
A bill may be introduced at any point during a two-year Congress. It will
remain eligible for consideration throughout the duration of that Congress
until the Congress ends or adjourns sine die.