Recess

 

The term recess refers to the period of time when the legislature is not in session. Recess is not a period of time when the legislature is not working, unless the legislator and/or staff choose to take any vacation time within that time period, but rather that the legislators and staff are focused on work in their individual districts or preparing to return to Session. This time is typically less restrictive and the workload is potentially lower as the legislature does not have the additional workload associated with the legislative Session.

 

U.S. Senate Definition

 

A temporary interruption of the Senate's proceedings, sometimes within the same day. The Senate may also recess overnight rather than adjourn at the end of the day.  Recess also refers to longer breaks, such as the breaks taken during holiday periods, pursuant to concurrent resolution.

 

Reference: http://www.senate.gov/reference/glossary.htm