How an Idea Becomes a Law
Understanding the legislative process is essential for effective civic engagement. This guide walks you through the journey from initial concept to enacted law.
Download the Full Guide1. Idea
A legislator decide to sponsor a bill. Ideas come from many sources: constituents, interest groups, and government agencies.
2. Bill Drafted
The legislator requests the idea be drafted into a bill by the legislative agency.
3. Bill Filed
The bill draft is sent to the Senate or House assembly, assigned a number, and submitted to the chamber.
4. Committee Assignment
The chamber leader refers the bill to a committee for consideration or lets the bill die.
5. Committee Action
The committee may hold public hearing on the bill and then vote, or the committee may choose not to hear or vote. This is the point at which most bills die.
6. Floor Debate
The bill as passed by the committee may be placed on the calendar for debate by the full chamber, or the bill may die without any debate or floor vote.
7. Amendment
Legislators may file amendments to the bill once it comes to the floor for debate. The bill and any amendments are read by the whole chamber.
8. Vote
Once the full chamber votes to approve the bill, it proceeds to the second chamber. If not approved, the bill dies.
9. Second Chamber
The process is repeated. If amended, the bill is sent back to the chamber of origin for approval. A committee may draft a version of the bill agreeable to both chambers. If both chambers do not approve, the bill dies.
10. Governor
After the bill passes both chambers in identical form, it is sent to the Governor. The Governor may sign the bill, veto the bill, or take no action on the bill.
11. Law
The bill becomes law upon the Governor's signature or as otherwise provided by state law.