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The Length of Legislative Sessions and the Growth of Government

Author

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  • MWANGI S. KIMENYI

    (University of Connecticut)

  • ROBERT D. TOLLISON

    (George Mason University)

Abstract

This article suggests a simple and straightforward explanation for government growth based on the length of time that Congress meets in session. The basic hypothesis is that the more time spent in session, the longer and/or more complex the number of bills enacted into law. Because each bill enacted is likely to entail some spending clauses, the bills enacted in longer sessions are likely to involve larger government spending than those passed in shorter sessions. Using data for both houses of Congress for the period 1947-1982, this article provides evidence in support of the hypothesis that government growth can be partially explained by the length of time that Congress takes in session.

Suggested Citation

  • Mwangi S. Kimenyi & Robert D. Tollison, 1995. "The Length of Legislative Sessions and the Growth of Government," Rationality and Society, , vol. 7(2), pages 151-155, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:ratsoc:v:7:y:1995:i:2:p:151-155
    DOI: 10.1177/1043463195007002003
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    Cited by:

    1. Margaret F. Brinig & Gerald Jogerst & Jeanette Daly & Gretchen Schmuch & Jeffrey Dawson, 2004. "The Public Choice of Elder Abuse Law," The Journal of Legal Studies, University of Chicago Press, vol. 33(2), pages 517-549, June.
    2. Christopher Duquette & Franklin Mixon & Richard Cebula, 2013. "The Impact of Legislative Tenure and Seniority on General Election Success: Econometric Evidence from U.S. House Races," Atlantic Economic Journal, Springer;International Atlantic Economic Society, vol. 41(2), pages 161-172, June.

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