15 1 How a Bill Becomes A Law

“ 15 -1: How a Bill Becomes A Law” Government Mrs. Deming

Bill l Definition—a proposed law l During a two year term of Congress, thousands of bills are introduced each term l Congress, as a national legislature, is open to all Americans who want things from the government— change comes in the form of bills

Types of Bills and Resolutions l Private bills—deal with individual people or places, claims against the government l l Minimal amount of the bills are private bills Public bills—general matters that apply to the entire nation, often controversial— raising/lowering taxes, national health insurance, gun control, civil rights, etc.

Why So Few Bills Become Laws l Less than 10% of all bills introduced in Congress become public laws l Very difficult and complicated process—delays, changes, “killed” l Sponsors must be willing to bargain and compromise l Some bills are introduced with no intention of becoming a law— attention to the issue or Congressional members want to go on “record” especially during re-election time

Introducing a Bill l Proposing a new bill—come from private citizens, interest groups, the President, officials in the executive branch, etc. l Only a member of Congress can introduce a bill in either house of Congress

Introducing a Bill l To introduce a bill in the House, a representative drops the bill into the hopper —a box near the clerk’s desk l To introduce a bill in the Senate, the presiding officer of the Senate must first recognize the senator who then formally presents the bill

Introducing a Bill l Bills are introduced in the House and Senate are printed and distributed to lawmakers l Each bill is given a title and a number l Bills are sent to committees that deal with their subject matter—discussion, ignore it, changes, etc.

Floor Action l After bill is passed in committee, the bill is debated on the floor of the House and Senate l Amendments (changes) are made l Formal vote takes place l To become law both houses of Congress must pass the bill…. . President must sign as final step l Congress can override a Presidential veto with 2/3 vote