Making laws
recess
A break in proceedings that does not end the legislative day. District work periods are the modern name for the long ones, when members go home.
In full
The distinction between recessing and adjourning is not cosmetic: it decides whether the legislative day continues, and whether the Senate is in recess for purposes of recess appointments, which is why pro forma sessions exist. What coverage calls a congressional vacation is formally a district or state work period, and offices are open throughout.
Also written as: recess, district work period
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A plain-language explanation for civic education, not legal advice. When in doubt, the official source named above controls.