The Bundesrath takes action on the measures to be proposed to the Reichstag and the resolutions passed by that body; it also supervises the execution of laws, and may point out any defects in the laws or in their execution.
The members of the Reichstag, or Diet, are elected by universal (more properly _manhood_) suffrage and by direct secret ballot, in proportion to the population of the several States[75].

On the average, each of the 397 members represents rather more than 100,000 of the population.

The proceedings of the Reichstag are public; it has the right (concurrently with those wielded by the Emperor and the Bundesrath) to propose laws for the Empire.

It sits for three years, but may be dissolved by a resolution of the Bundesrath, with the consent of the Emperor.

Deputies may not be bound by orders and instructions issued by their constituents.