The Senate has 50 members elected to two-year terms. The Lieutenant Governor, who is elected in a state-wide vote every four years, presides as President of the Senate. The House of Representatives has 120 members elected to two-year terms. Representatives select a member to preside as Speaker of the House. During a typical biennial session, the General Assembly considers approximately 4000 pieces of proposed legislation.
Public bills deal with matters that affect the entire state.
Most bills that affect the University are public bills. Bills in North Carolina become law upon approval by both houses of the General Assembly and the Governor's approval. Resolutions do not become laws but can govern the way the House of Representatives and Senate operate. Resolutions also can express the views of the General Assembly members. Simple resolutions require passage only by the chamber considering resolution and will affect only that body.