Summary of Article 1, Section 5, Clauses 1-4. Article one, section five of the United States Constitution covers a lot of important information on the rules and procedures that govern the functioning of Congress. To start with clause one states, “Each House shall be the Judge of the Elections, Returns and Qualifications of its Members, and a Majority of each shall constitute a Quorum to do Business; but a smaller Number may adjourn from day to day, and may be authorized to compel the Attendance of absent Members, in such Manner, and under such Penalties as each House may provide.”(U.S. Const., …show more content…
Lastly, clause four says, “Neither House, during the Session of Congress, shall, without the Consent of the other, adjourn for more than three days, nor to any other Place than that in which the two Houses shall be sitting.”(U.S. Const., Art.1). Clause four of the United States Constitution holds significant importance as it establishes the principle of regular sessions of Congress and provides for the adjournment power. This clause grants Congress the authority to determine the times of its adjournment, with the exception that neither house can adjourn for more than three days without the consent of the other. By empowering Congress to control its schedule and ensure regular sessions, this clause enables the legislative branch to fulfill its constitutional duties effectively. It prevents any one branch of government from unilaterally disrupting the legislative process, thereby maintaining the balance of power among the branches. Additionally, the requirement for mutual agreement on adjournment helps foster cooperation and compromise between the House of Representatives and the Senate, facilitating the smooth functioning of the legislative process. Overall, clause four plays a