Some powers are exercised exclusively by the Chamber. This concerns the control of the Federal Government, and among other things, the budget and the State accounts. With regard to the authority to force a government to resign, the current article 96 of the Constitution stipulates that the government presents its resignation when the Chamber of Deputies, by an absolute majority of its members, adopts a no-confidence motion proposing to the King the appointment of a successor to the Prime Minister, or proposes to the King the appointment of a successor to the Prime Minister within three days of the rejection of a confidence motion.

The Senate in turn has sole powers to settle conflicts of interest that may arise between the Federal Parliament and the Parliaments of the Communities and the Regions.

Other powers are exercised alternately by the Chamber and the Senate: the introduction of candidates for the Court of Arbitration, the Court of Cassation and the Council of State (the Supreme Administrative Court).

For the most important powers, the two assemblies act on an equal footing. Revision of the Constitution, approval of certain laws and ratification of international conventions.

Both assemblies exercise all other powers, but it is the Chamber that has the final say. The Senate is a forum for reflection and is therefore only expected to pronounce on draft laws or proposals if it considers it necessary. The Senate may also take the initiative in putting forward a proposal for a law.

Together with the Federal Government, the Chamber and the Senate uphold the public interest of the State.

