Bill (law)

A bill is a proposed law under consideration by a legislature. A bill does not become law until it is passed by the legislature and, in most cases, approved by the executive (e.g., the president or governor).

The process of a bill becoming law typically involves several stages, including:

• Introduction: A bill is introduced in the legislature by a member (or members) of that body.
• Committee Review: The bill is then referred to a relevant committee, which studies the bill, holds hearings, and may amend it. The committee then votes on whether to report the bill to the full legislature.
• Floor Debate: If the committee reports the bill favorably, it is debated on the floor of the legislature. Amendments may be offered and voted on.
• Vote: After debate, the legislature votes on the bill. If it passes, it is sent to the other house of the legislature (if applicable) where the process is repeated.
• Reconciliation: If the two houses pass different versions of the bill, a conference committee is often formed to reconcile the differences. The resulting compromise bill is then voted on by both houses.
• Executive Approval: If both houses pass the same version of the bill, it is sent to the executive for approval. The executive may sign the bill into law or veto it.
• Override (Optional): If the executive vetoes the bill, the legislature may override the veto, typically by a supermajority vote (e.g., two-thirds). If the veto is overridden, the bill becomes law.

Bills can cover a wide range of topics and may be introduced by individual legislators, committees, or the executive branch. The specific procedures for introducing, considering, and passing bills vary depending on the legislative body and jurisdiction. The term "bill" is distinct from "law" or "statute," which refers to a bill that has been enacted.