1. How a Bill Becomes Law

2. A bill is introduced in the House OR in the Senate and assigned a number and title
Step 1

3. Step 2 The bill is then sent to a committee for study
The committee collects information, holds hearings, and suggests changes.
If approved in the House – it is sent to the full Senate and visa versa
Step 2

4. The bill is then debated on the house or senate floor and if approved, sent to the other house –
For instance, if the bill is first debated in the House, it will then be sent to the Senate
Step 3

5. Step 4 Most bills will undergo changes by this step
That is why a Conference Committee is formed
The CC resolves differences between the House and Senate versions
The revised bill is then sent back to BOTH houses
Step 4

6. Step 5 The House and the Senate both vote on final passage
The approved bill is then sent to the President
Step 5

7. Step 6 The president has several choices:
Veto – says no (Congress can override with a 2/3 vote)
Signs it – Yes! Bill is Law!
Pocket Veto – the President does NOT sign it
If congress is IN SESSION, then it becomes law after 10 days
If congress goes OUT OF SESSION, the bill dies
Step 6

8. P. 229
Reading