A bill becomes a law through a series of steps involving drafting, review, approval, and final enactment. Here is a general outline of the process, primarily based on the U.S. system, with some references to other parliamentary systems:
How a Bill Becomes a Law (U.S. Process)
- Idea and Sponsorship
Laws begin as ideas, which can come from citizens, legislators, interest groups, or the executive branch. A member of the House of Representatives or Senate sponsors the bill and introduces it to their chamber
- Committee Review
The bill is assigned to a committee that specializes in the bill’s subject. The committee studies the bill, holds hearings, and may amend, approve, or reject it. If approved, the bill moves forward
- Chamber Debate and Vote
The bill is placed on the calendar for debate. Members discuss the bill and may propose further amendments. The chamber then votes on the bill. A simple majority is usually required for passage (218 of 435 in the House, 51 of 100 in the Senate)
- Other Chamber Consideration
The bill is sent to the other chamber (House or Senate), where it undergoes a similar process: committee review, debate, and vote. Both chambers must pass the bill in the same form
- Conference Committee
If there are differences between the House and Senate versions, a conference committee made up of members from both chambers reconciles them. The revised bill returns to both chambers for final approval
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Presidential Action
The approved bill is sent to the President, who has several options:- Sign the bill into law.
- Veto the bill, sending it back to Congress with reasons for rejection. Congress can override the veto with a two-thirds majority in both chambers, making it law anyway.
- Take no action for 10 days while Congress is in session, in which case the bill automatically becomes law. If Congress adjourns during that period, the bill does not become law (pocket veto)
- Becoming Law
Once signed by the President or passed over a veto, the bill becomes law. It may be published and take effect on a specified date
Additional Notes from Other Systems
- In the Dutch Parliament, a bill is examined by committees and debated in both the House of Representatives and the Senate. The Senate can only approve or reject the bill without amendments. Once passed, it is signed by the Head of State and published before becoming law
- In the UK Parliament, a bill must be approved in the same form by both the House of Commons and the House of Lords before becoming an Act (law)
This process ensures thorough review and debate before a bill becomes law, balancing input from legislators, committees, and the executive branch.
