1. LawCraft

2. The Lawmaking Process
A bill can start in either chamber of Congress, but let’s have ours start in the Senate!
Step One: The Proposal
A lawmaker writes down an idea.
Step Two: The Introduction
The bill is read and sent to committee
S.357

3. We need to change that part…
The Lawmaking Process
A bill changes A LOT between the time it is proposed and when it reaches a final version. Editing and amending is a big part of writing future laws.
Step Three: The Report
If the committee likes it, it will be sent to the whole Senate.
Step Four: The Floor Debate
All senators debate whether it should be supported, opposed, or changed.
S.357
No way!
Love it.
Then there is a lot of research, conversation, compromise, and more conversation!
We need to change that part…

4. We need to change that part…
S.357
The Lawmaking Process
Step Five: The Vote
The Senate votes on the bill, requiring a majority to pass.
Step Six: The Delivery
The bill goes through the same steps in the House of Representatives.
No way!
Love it.
Senate Vote on S.357
59 Yeas
39 Nay
2 Present
We need to change that part…
Remind students that Step 6 is really the repetition of Steps 2-5, but in the other chamber of Congress.
House Vote on S.357
227 Yeas
203 Nay
5 Present

5. The Lawmaking Process New Law Step Seven: The Vote (Part 2)
If both chambers of Congress approve, the bill lands on the president’s desk.
If it is signed, it becomes a law. If it is vetoed, it doesn’t.*
New Law
S.357
Then there is a lot of research, conversation, compromise, and more conversation!
*Congress can override a veto if there are enough votes (2/3 of Congress) to do so. The president can also ignore the bill. If a bill is ignored while Congress is in session, it automatically becomes a law after ten days. If Congress is not in session, it doesn't.