House of Representatives

House of Representatives, one of 2 chambers of the U.S. Congress, the legislative branch of the federal government. It consists of 435 members apportioned from each state according to population. Representatives serve 2-year terms. To be elected, they must be at least 25 years of age, a U.S. citizen for at least 7 years, and a resident of the state from which he or she is chosen. The House is presided over by the Speaker of the House, who is elected by consensus of the majority party. He or she appoints joint committees and gives representatives permission to debate. Representatives serve on 4 committees: standing (permanent), select, conference, and joint. The committee system has the power to control proposed bills.

See also: Congress of the United States.