The responsibilities of the Senate

Question 1

Act as a “house of review”

Answer 1

The Senate is “another set of eyes” away from the debates in the “House” where the bills (proposed laws) can be reviewed again. Usually, as long as there is nothing obviously wrong, the bill will pass.

Question 2

Act as a “states house”

Answer 2

The Senate composition was designed to protect the smaller states from being dominated by the larger states. All states have the same number of senators, even though some states are bigger than others. Therefore, if any bill discriminates against a particular state or in favour of a particular state, it is subject to amendment in the Senate.

Question 3

Further scrutiny of bills sent from the “House”

Answer 3

All bills have to pass the committee stage in the Senate which also puts it under further detailed scrutiny.