Final Answer:
In January 2021, the 117th session of Congress began, marking the start of a new two-year legislative cycle,So, the corret option is b.
Step-by-step explanation:
In January 2021, the 117th session of Congress began. The United States Congress is organized into two chambers: the Senate and the House of Representatives. Each Congress lasts for two years, and the session numbering is sequential. The 116th Congress was in session before January 2021, making the 117th Congress the one that began in January 2021.
The session of Congress is determined by the election cycle. The start of a new Congress follows the midterm elections, which are held every two years. Therefore, as 2020 marked a new election cycle, it led to the commencement of the 117th Congress in January 2021. This cycle aligns with the constitutional requirement that Congress must assemble at least once a year, and the commencement of a new session symbolizes the continuity of legislative activities and representation.
Understanding the session numbering is crucial for tracking legislative work, as each new session offers an opportunity for lawmakers to address evolving challenges and issues. It also allows for a fresh start in terms of proposed legislation, committee assignments, and leadership positions within Congress. Hence, the 117th Congress, which began in January 2021, plays a pivotal role in shaping the legislative agenda and responding to the needs of the American people during its two-year term,Thus, the correct option is b.