Senate

The main task of the Senate is to adopt or reject bills, but it is also the duty of the Senators to scrutinise the work of the government. The members of the Senate are elected indirectly by the members of the provincial councils. The latter are elected directly by the Dutch people.

Legislation

As far as legislation is concerned, a bill adopted by the House of Representatives must be approved by the Senate in order to become law. The Senate does not have the right to amend a bill but can only adopt or reject it. The Senate can also scrutinize the work of the government, but does not often use this instrument.