1. Making a Law
A Step by Step Guide

2. There is a problem . . .
The people decide there is an issue they want the government to address
They write letters to the government
They write to newspapers or television stations
They form pressure groups
They demonstrate
Or they try to get elected themselves

3. The bill begins . . .
The Prime Minister, the Cabinet ministers or even a back bencher will propose a new bill
The bill is written in draft form
The Prime Minister approves the draft

4. The First Reading
The bill is introduced to the 308 Members of Parliament in the House of Commons in a brief statement

5. Second Reading The reason for the bill is explained
The principle of the bill is debated
A House of Commons committee examines the bill clause by clause making changes and improvements
The public may attend the hearings
The bill is voted on

6. Third Reading Usually there is a brief debate
The bill is voted on and is either passed or defeated
But it’s not a law yet, even if it is passed

7. The Senate
The Second House or Senate of 105 appointed senators offers “sober second thought”
They represent each province and territory
The bill is again read three times and goes to committee
The Senate can stop a bill but rarely does because they are not elected
They may send a bill back to the House

8. The Governor General
Acting on behalf of the Queen, the Governor General gives the bill royal assent
It is now a law