Ex-oficio members and members of the gallery traditionally sit behind the Cabinet in the upper rows of the Senate chamber, in either the left or right rows. Here members often present business outside of usual legislation or business of an immediate nature. Speakers often visit the Senate during Special Business. Nominations to executive offices or other bodies politic are confirmed by a simple majority. Executive sessions, which are called only during times of elections, are conducted with the galleries cleared and the doors closed, enabling senators to speak freely about the character of nominees.
Legislative business consumes the largest share of the senate's time.
The Senate may debate at length any and all Old Business, with a formal roll call vote ultimately deciding a matter. If a single member objects, however, roll call must be taken. To expedite matters, the leadership may at any time limit the time a speaker has. When a bill is being debated, the author or authors will take the floor beside the Chair. New Business is presented and left with the Senators to take back to their constituents for debate and discussion.