Where Laws Are Made in Trinidad and Tobago: The Parliament

The Parliament of Trinidad and Tobago is the supreme law-making body. It consists of three components:

1. The President – Head of State; gives assent to bills.
2. The Senate – 31 appointed members (16 Govt, 6 Opp, 9 Independents). Reviews legislation.
3. The House of Representatives – 41 elected members (5-year term). Primary legislative chamber; most bills originate here.

📜 Legislative Process:

1. Bill introduced in House (usually by Minister).
2. Debated, amended, voted (3 readings).
3. Sent to Senate for review (can delay, amend, but not block money bills).
4. Returns to House for concurrence on amendments.
5. Presidential Assent → becomes Act of Parliament (law).

Based on Westminster model. Constitution (1976) is supreme law. Judiciary interprets; cannot strike down primary legislation (no judicial review of Acts), but can review subsidiary legislation.