Lawmaking process
Definition
The formal procedure by which a bill becomes a law in the United States. This multi-step process involves both chambers of Congress and the president, with numerous opportunities for debate, amendment, and defeat along the way.
How It Works
- A bill is introduced in either the House of Representatives or the Senate by a member of Congress.
- The bill is assigned to a relevant committee, which studies, debates, and may amend it.
- If approved by committee, the bill goes to the full chamber for debate and a vote.
- If one chamber passes the bill, it is sent to the other chamber to go through the same process.
- If both chambers pass different versions, a conference committee reconciles the differences.
- The final bill is sent to the president, who can sign it into law or veto it.
- Congress can override a presidential veto with a two-thirds vote in both chambers.
Examples
- The Civil Rights Act of 1964 passing through extensive congressional debate before signing
- A tax reform bill being debated and amended in committee before reaching the House floor
- Congress overriding President Andrew Johnson's veto of the Civil Rights Act of 1866
Study This Concept
Practice lawmaking process with free review games in these units: