Connecticut’s General Assembly is the state’s legislative branch. It includes the 151-member House of Representatives and 36-member Senate. Members of both chambers serve two-year terms. Their work includes state spending and laws on subjects such as education, the environment, public works, and civil and criminal matters. General Assembly FAQs
How this connects to your ballot
Your home address determines your State House and State Senate districts. These state offices are separate from Congress and Stratford’s town government. Our election guide explains how to find your districts and the legislative races covered by this website.
How a bill becomes law
- An idea becomes a proposal. Residents can bring ideas to their legislators, who can propose legislation.
- A committee considers the subject. Committees can develop proposals, hold public hearings, make changes, or decide not to advance a bill.
- Both chambers consider it. The House and Senate must agree on the legislation; amendments can require further votes.
- The governor considers the bill. It can become law through signature or, in specified circumstances, without a signature. A veto can be overridden by two-thirds of the elected membership in each chamber.
This is an overview; individual bills can take different procedural paths. The legislature’s bill-to-law explanation describes the steps.
Follow a proposal or public hearing
The General Assembly website provides bill searches, committee information, calendars, and legislator contacts. A bill’s number is a useful way to follow its text and status as it changes. To participate in a hearing, check the relevant committee’s current notice for testimony instructions and deadlines.
Information reviewed September 8, 2026. For election preparation, see the Voting FAQs.