Glossary C

Convene

To convene is to assemble a legislative body, committee, court, or other group for an official meeting. Congress convenes at the start of a new session under constitutional and chamber rules, and other bodies convene under their governing procedures.

To convene is to assemble a legislative body, committee, court, or other group for an official meeting. Congress convenes at the start of a new session under constitutional and chamber rules, and other bodies convene under their governing procedures.

Example: The 119th Congress convened on January 3, 2025, when newly elected members gathered and the House began organizing for the new Congress.

Common misconception: Convening means a body has completed its business. It marks the start of a meeting or session, after which the body conducts its work under applicable procedures.

Sources: https://constitution.congress.gov/browse/amendment-20/; https://www.house.gov/the-house-explained/the-legislative-process