A legislature is a group of elected officials who have the power to make, change, or repeal laws. This body is essential in a democratic system, as it represents the will of the people. Legislatures can be found at various levels, such as national, state, or local, and they often consist of two houses, like the Senate and the House of Representatives in the United States. Members of the legislature, known as legislators, debate proposed laws, also called bills, and vote on them. Their decisions can significantly impact society, affecting everything from education to healthcare. By holding public meetings and discussions, legislatures ensure that citizens have a voice in the law-making process.