Article 1 of the United States Constitution primarily deals with the legislative branch of the government, outlining the powers, structure, and functioning of Congress. It establishes the framework for the U.S. Congress, which is composed of two chambers: the House of Representatives and the Senate. The key issues addressed in Article 1 include:
1. Section 1: Legislative Powers: This section vests all legislative powers of the federal government in Congress, comprising the House of Representatives and the Senate.
2. Section 2: House of Representatives: This section defines the qualifications and responsibilities of members of the House of Representatives, including the process of election, the apportionment of representatives based on population, and the authority to initiate revenue-related bills.
3. Section 3: The Senate: This section outlines the qualifications and responsibilities of senators, including the process of election and the equal representation of states in the Senate.
4. Section 4: Elections and Meetings: This section grants the states the power to establish the times, places, and manner of congressional elections, while also requiring Congress to meet at least once a year.
5. Section 5: Rules and Procedures: This section grants each chamber of Congress the power to determine its rules, procedures, and discipline for its members.
6. Section 6: Compensation and Privileges: This section establishes the compensation and privileges of members of Congress, including protection from arrest while attending sessions and freedom of speech.
7. Section 7: Legislative Process: This section outlines the process for passing bills into law, including the requirement of bicameral approval and the presidential veto power.
8. Section 8: Powers of Congress: This section enumerates the specific powers of Congress, including the power to collect taxes, regulate commerce, coin money, establish post offices, declare war, and make laws necessary and proper for carrying out its responsibilities.
9. Section 9: Limits on Congress: This section imposes certain limitations on the powers of Congress, such as prohibiting the suspension of the writ of habeas corpus and the enactment of ex post facto laws.
10. Section 10: Limits on States: This section outlines the restrictions placed on the states, including their ability to enter into treaties, coin money, or engage in war without the consent of Congress.
Overall, Article 1 establishes the structure and authority of the legislative branch, defining its powers, responsibilities, and limitations within the framework of the U.S. government.