1. HOW A BILL BECOMES A LAW Simulation

2. STEP 1: BILL IS INTRODUCED
Draft a bill (an idea for a new law or changes to an existing law)
Write down your group’s bill and an explanation of why it should become a law.
Introduce bill
Read your group’s bill to the class.

3. STEP 2: COMMITTEE Hearings
Bill is assigned to a committee
Exchange your bill with another group.
Bill is discussed and voted on in committee
Discuss the bill with your group and vote on whether or not it should become a law.
Write down an explanation of why it should or should not become a law.

4. STEP 3: BILL IS DISCUSSED & VOTED ON
Bill is discussed/debated by the whole house
Read your group’s bill and explanation to the class and answer any questions about the bill.
Bill is voted on by the whole house
The class will vote on whether or not the bill should become a law.

5. Step 4: if passed, bill is sent to THE other house
Bill is introduced, Committee Hearings, and bill is discussed and voted on
In order for a bill to become a law, both houses must agree (vote) on the same version of the bill.

6. Step 5: if passed by both houses, bill goes to THE governor
Governor may sign the bill or do nothing, and the bill becomes a law. Governor may also veto the bill.
The teacher will either sign the bill, do nothing, or veto the bill.
Both houses may vote to override the veto by a 2/3 majority in each house.