The Powers of Congress
Write Laws, Declare War, Monitor Federal Agencies
Congress has many powers, including the power to assess and collect taxes; to regulate commerce, both interstate and foreign; to coin money; to establish post offices; to establish courts inferior to the Supreme Court; to declare war and to raise and maintain an Army and Navy. Another power vested in Congress is the right to propose amendments to the U.S. Constitution, whenever two-thirds of both houses decide it necessary.
The House of Representatives is granted the power of originating all bills for the raising of revenue.
Under the constitution, the Senate is granted certain powers not given to the House of Representatives. The Senate must approve of some high-level presidential appointments. It must also concur in treaties with foreign countries by a two-thirds vote.