Final answer:
Congress must assemble at least once every calendar year, with the current requirement set by the 20th Amendment for this session to begin on January 3rd at noon, unless a different day is specified by law.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the requirements set by the United States Constitution and later amendments, Congress is obliged to assemble at least once each calendar year. This mandate ensures that the legislative branch of the government meets regularly to conduct its duties.
Initially, the Constitution stated that this assembly should occur on the first Monday in December. However, following the passage of the 20th Amendment in 1933, this date was changed to January 3rd at noon, unless Congress legislates a different day for the assembly.
Consequently, Congress has the power to determine its own schedule within these constitutional parameters. This adjustment made by the 20th Amendment reflects the ongoing evolution of governmental processes to better fit the needs of the country.
It is crucial for the functioning of a representative democracy that the elected members of Congress come together to discuss, debate, and pass legislation.