1. How a Bill Becomes Law
Ch 12 Sections 3 and 4

2. Types of Legislation Bill: a proposed law
Joint Resolution: proposal for action that has the force of law; usually temporary
Concurrent Resolution: a statement of position that doesn’t have the force of law; no presidential signature required
Resolution: a measure dealing with an issue in one house that doesn’t have force of law
Rider: an additional attachment to legislation that is unrelated

3. First Step The legislation is introduced/read
Names are given to legislation (H.R or S.)
It is printed and distributed to the members
The Speaker refers it to the appropriate committee

4. Second The committee vets the legislation. This is where most die.
Subcommittees gather more information and hear arguments
Pigeonholed: when a bill is put away and never acted on. This can be overturned or forced out with a discharge petition. This requires a majority vote.
Options available:
Report with do pass recommendation
Refuse bill (pigeonhole)
Report bill with amendments
Report bill unfavorably
Report a committee bill (a new alternative)

5. Third Next it must be scheduled for the floor.
It needs to get a “rule” from the Rules Committee to get to the floor.
If it reaches the floor, it will be debated, then a vote occurs:
Voice Vote
Standing Vote
Teller Vote
Roll Call Vote
After a second and third reading it is engrossed and signed by the Speaker.

6. Senate differences A similar process is used in the Senate
Debate is encouraged and largely unrestricted.
Filibuster: talking a bill to death.
Cloture: limiting debate-this is irregular in the Senate
When it is complete, it goes to the President for action