Lithuanian Parliament

The Seimas shall meet annually in two regular sessions, spring session (March 10th- June 30th) and autumn session (September 10th-December 23rd). Extraordinary sessions shall be convened by the Chairman of the Seimasupon the proposal of at least 1/3 of all members of the Seimas, or, in cases provided for in the Constitution, by the President of the Republic.

The main powers of the Seimas shall be to:

  • consider, adopt and issue laws, make amendments to the Constitution;
  • approve or disapprove of the candidature of the Prime Minister nominated by the President of the Republic;
  • discuss and approve the programme of the Government and supervise its policy;
  • approve the State Budget, supervise its implementation and establish state taxes;
  • announce presidential elections, municipal elections;
  • ratify international treaties, discuss other important issues of foreign policy.

Parliament elects committees from its members to explore drafts for legislation and to clarify other issues in accordance with the Constitution. Parliamentary commissions (standing and ad hoc) are formed to carry out short-term or limited assignments.

The Seimas Statute defines the MPs' duties and rights and has the power of law. The Assembly of Elders composed of members of the Seimas Board and representatives of the Parliamentary Groups considers the work programmes of the Seimas session and approves of the draft agendas of week-or day-long sittings, co-ordinates the organisation of the work of the Seimas.

The Office of the Seimas provides services to the Seimas of the Republic of Lithuania, the highest legislative body elected by Lithuanian citizens.

In ensuring the work of the parliament, the units of the Seimas perform the following functions:

  • Register draft legislation and proposals of legislation; provide services to plenary sittings;
  • Provide assistance in drafting and draft legal acts; draw conclusions on the draft legal acts under deliberation by the Seimas;
  • Prepare the originals of the legal act texts to be signed by the leaders of the state;
  • Manage the Seimas information system;
  • Are responsible for public relations between the Seimas and public authorities, municipalities, diplomatic offices, and the media and provide them with information about the activities of the Seimas;
  • Organise guided tours of the Seimas buildings;
  • Hold meetings and provide consultations to individuals; register and examine letters incoming from individuals and organisations;
  • Maintain relations between the Seimas and foreign parliaments, as well as other authorities.
More info on the Lithuanian Parliament

 

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