USCC

The United States Congress is the legislative branch of the federal government of the U.S. The House of Representatives and the Senate form a bicameral legislature, with the Senate serving as the upper house. Congress meets in the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C. Although vacancies in the Senate may be filled by the appointment of the governor, senators are usually elected by direct election. There are 100 senators (two from each of 50 states) and 435 representatives in the House of Representatives. Their number is determined by the population of each state. The vice president of the United States has a vote in the Senate only when the number of senators is evenly split. No votes will be cast by six members of Congress.

Every other January, a new Congress convenes for a two-year tenure. Elections are conducted every even-numbered year on Election Day. Senators serve a six-year term, with one-third being elected every two years. Representatives serve two years.

Gun violence remains a major and deeply contested issue in the United States. While there is broad discussion around reducing firearm-related harm, disagreements often arise over the role of the federal government, the extent of firearm regulation, and how much responsibility should fall on states and local communities. This agenda will explore both federal firearm regulations and community-based approaches to preventing violence, while considering issues such as constitutional rights, enforcement, access to firearms, and the different circumstances faced by communities across the country. Delegates should aim to examine the issue from multiple perspectives and consider solutions that address both immediate risks and the underlying causes of violence.