Pocket Veto

Written by Jonathan Milner

Definition

A way a bill dies without the president's signature. If Congress adjourns within the 10 days (Sundays excepted) the president has to act, and the president does not sign the bill, it does not become law, and Congress cannot override it.

Example

Because a pocket veto cannot be overridden, presidents and Congress have sometimes clashed over whether a short break in a session counts as an adjournment.

 

Questions

  1. Define pocket veto.

  2. Explain how a pocket veto differs from a regular veto.

  3. Describe what happens to a bill if the president does not sign it within 10 days while Congress is in session.

  4. Explain why Congress cannot override a pocket veto.

  5. Explain how the pocket veto is an example of checks and balances.

  6. Identify the part of the Constitution that describes the president's veto power.

  7. Describe one way Congress can avoid a pocket veto.

  8. Is the pocket veto a fair use of presidential power? Explain.

  9. What emoji would do a good job of expressing the concept pocket veto?

  10. Translate pocket veto into plain English.

Remember!

Now, let’s commit this term to our long-term memory. On a scrap piece of paper, take 10 or 20 seconds to draw a pocket veto! Draw with symbols or stick figures if you wish. Nothing fancy. Don’t expect a masterpiece. No one else will see this but you. Look at your drawing. That’s all - now it’s downloaded into your memory. Destroy the piece of paper in a most delightful way.

Further Review

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Jonathan Milner

Civics Maven!

https://www.gopopro.com/
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