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How a bill becomes law

INTRODUCTION All changes to laws are called “bills” until passed by both the Senate and the House of Representatives. The bill receives its number (how it will be referred to). Bill introduction read on the floor and then referred to a standing committee.		COMMITTEE HEARINGS First chance for general public to comment on bill. Committee can pass the bill as introduced (no changes), amend it (make a change), hold it for later consideration, or kill the bill.
A VOTE... After a bill has been voted out of a standing committee, the Rules Committee determines if and when it will be considered for passage by that body. There is usually further debate at this stage prior to the vote. Further changes to the bill can be made at this time if accepted by a majority and a legislator can add their name as a co-sponsor. A majority is required to pass each bill. However, emergency legislation requires a two-thirds vote.		THE ACT... After passing both chambers, the bill is signed by both leaders and sent to the Governor. From receipt, the Governor has 10 days to:  sign it, let it become law without his signature, or veto. If no action is taken within 10 days, it automatically becomes law. A veto requires a 3/5 vote of each chamber to override the veto. Bills become effective 90 days after the Governor’s signature, unless an appropriation or emergency, then it becomes effective immediately.
FOLLOWING PASSAGE OF A BILL IN THE HOUSE OF ORIGIN, IT MUST FOLLOW THE SAME GENERAL PROCESS IN THE SECOND HOUSE.   If amendments are agreed upon in the second house, the amendments must also receive a vote in the original house.  If agreement is not reached, a CONFERENCE COMMITTEE is appointed to resolve the differences.  After agree-ment is reached, both houses must take another vote.

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Updated: March 8, 2007