From the desk of Rep. John Talley, District 33
(OK House of Representatives) — In November, you may see both state and federal offices on your ballot. Both levels play an important part in the American political system, and this week I want to briefly overview the differences between a state legislature and U.S. Congress. I often get questions from constituents on this, so I am answering those.
In the United States, the legislative process operates at both the state and federal levels. Congress, based in Washington, D.C. at the U.S. Capitol building, serves as the national lawmaking body, while state legislatures work in individual state capitals.
Both Congress and state legislatures pass laws, but they operate independently.
Congress consists of two houses: the Senate and the House of Representatives. This bicameral structure is designed to balance the interests of the people as well as the different states.
The Senate has 100 members, with each state having two senators regardless of its population size. Senators serve six-year terms, with elections staggered so that roughly one-third of the members are up for reelection every two years. In addition to passing laws and a federal budget, the Senate holds significant power over federal appointments and treaties.
The House of Representatives has 435 members, with the number of representatives per state based on population. Oklahoma has five seats and all members serve two-year terms. The House is tasked with initiating revenue bills—Oklahoma’s own Tom Cole serves as the chair of the House Appropriations Committee.
Congress has the authority to create laws that impact the entire country. It can regulate interstate and international commerce, declare war, establish federal courts, and exercise powers enumerated in the Constitution, like the ability to levy taxes and spend public money for national defense and general welfare.
At the state level, each of the 50 states has their own legislature, which is responsible for making laws that apply only within that state. In Oklahoma, our Legislature also has a House and Senate.
Legislators are elected directly by the people from single member districts of equal population. The Oklahoma House has 101 members, myself included, who serve two-year terms.
The 48 state senators serve four-year terms that are staggered so half of the districts are eligible in each election cycle. All Oklahoma legislators are limited to a combined 12 years in office.
The Legislature meets annually for our legislative sessions, which run from February through May. Like Congress, each chamber of the Oklahoma Legislature has a unique responsibility in addition to passing laws. The Senate approves gubernatorial appointments to executive state positions, while any bills raising revenue must originate in the House.
The primary distinction between Congress and state legislatures is in their jurisdiction and the scope of their legislative powers. Congress addresses national and international matters, while state legislatures focus on state-specific issues. For instance, Congress might pass a law affecting national healthcare policy, while a state legislature might debate a bill to address healthcare access within its own borders.
If you have an issue that deals with a federal agency, like a federal tax return, a passport, or a disability claim, you can reach out to your member of Congress or one of our Senators for assistance. They have a full staff available whose whole job is assisting Oklahomans in these situations. For issues related to state agencies, like a state tax return, a driver’s license issue, or repairs on a state highway, you can reach out to my office. If you’re unsure who to talk to, contact me and my staff will gladly point you in the right direction.
As always, please call my office at (405) 557-7304 or email me at [email protected] if there’s anything I can help with. Thank you for the honor of representing our district!
