When a president vetoes a bill, the bill is returned to the house of Congress where it originated along with the president's objections. Congress then has the opportunity to reconsider the bill. If two-thirds of both the House and the Senate vote to override the veto, the bill becomes law despite the president's rejection. If Congress does not override the veto, the bill fails to become law. Additionally, if the president neither signs nor vetoes the bill within 10 days while Congress is in session, the bill automatically becomes law. However, if Congress adjourns during this period and the president does not sign the bill, the bill does not become law, which is known as a pocket veto.
Overview of Presidential Veto Process
- The president has 10 days (excluding Sundays) to sign or veto a bill after it is presented.
- A signed bill becomes law.
- A vetoed bill is returned with objections and requires a two-thirds majority in both chambers of Congress to override the veto.
- Failure to override means the bill does not become law.
- A pocket veto happens if the president takes no action and Congress adjourns during the 10-day period, preventing a return of the bill.
Significance of the Veto
- The veto is a constitutional check on legislative power.
- Congress rarely overrides vetoes; only about 7% of regular vetoes are overridden historically.
- The veto gives the president leverage to influence legislation before it is passed.
This constitutional mechanism ensures a balance of power between the president and Congress in the lawmaking process.
