Learn about the legislature in Massachusetts.
A legislature has the authority to make laws. It also has authority to propose, amend and enact budgets. The legislative branch operates separately from judicial (courts) and executive branches.
Individual members are called legislators. They listen to the public, business, and government representatives, gather information, and vote on laws.
Laws are commonly proposed by the public, special interests groups, and lobbyists. The lobbyists are hired to persuade legislators and enact laws that benefit a group or business. Government entities propose operational laws designed to maximize public services.
Legislatures typically make bill, committee, and law information available to the public via their websites. Some provide automated web services for system developers.