Basically, the functions of the legislature under our constitution extend to the following key areas: a. lawmaking, b. control over state funds, c. oversights over the other branches of government in areas that are coterminous with the legislative powers, d. receipts and disposal of petitions, e. screening of nominees for executive appointments, f. quasi-judicial functions in indicting and impeaching the executive and g. protecting democracy by emphasizing representation as well as open debate of State affairs.