The state legislature is composed of two parts: the SENATE and the House of Representatives. The SENATE is made up of elected representatives from each state, who serve for a fixed term. The SENATE is responsible for passing laws, approving presidential appointments, and ratifying treaties. The House of Representatives is also made up of elected representatives from each state, but they serve for a shorter term than senators. The House is responsible for introducing bills, debating them, and voting on them. Both the SENATE and the House must pass a bill before it can become law.