Bill (United States Congress)

Bill (United States Congress)

A bill in the context of the United States Congress is a proposed legislation under consideration by either of the two chambers of Congress: the United States House of Representatives or the United States Senate. Legislation can be introduced in either body of Congress, with the exception of Revenue bills, which must originate in the House of Representatives. The process by which a bill becomes law is complex and involves several stages, including introduction, committee review, debate, and voting. Bills that are approved by both houses of Congress are then sent to the President of the United States for approval or veto.

Introduction

A bill is formally introduced by a member of Congress, known as the sponsor. Other members who support the bill can become co-sponsors. Once introduced, a bill is assigned a number (H.R. for those introduced in the House and S. for those in the Senate) and is referred to one or more congressional committees that have jurisdiction over the bill's subject matter.

Committee Stage

In the committee stage, the bill is reviewed, and the committee may hold hearings to gather information and views from experts and the public. The committee can amend the bill, rewrite it entirely, or decide not to take any action on it. If the committee votes to approve the bill, it is reported out of committee and sent back to the full chamber for consideration.

Debate and Voting

Once a bill reaches the floor of the House or Senate, it is subject to debate. In the House, the time for debate is usually limited. In the Senate, debate can be extended, and senators may use the filibuster to delay or block bills. After debate, the bill is voted on. A simple majority (one more than half of those present and voting) is required for a bill to pass a chamber of Congress.

Conference Committee

If the House and Senate pass different versions of the same bill, a conference committee made up of members from both chambers is formed to reconcile the differences. The compromise bill, known as a conference report, must then be approved by both the House and Senate.

Presidential Action

Once a bill has been approved by both houses of Congress, it is sent to the President. The President can sign the bill into law, veto it, or take no action. If the President vetoes the bill, Congress can override the veto with a two-thirds vote in both the House and Senate. If the President takes no action for ten days while Congress is in session, the bill automatically becomes law. If Congress adjourns before the ten days are up and the President has not signed the bill, it does not become law, a situation known as a pocket veto.

Types of Bills

There are several types of bills, including public bills, which apply to the general public or affect the whole country, and private bills, which affect only specific individuals or entities. Other types include appropriations bills, which authorize government spending, and revenue bills.

Conclusion

The process by which a bill becomes law in the United States Congress is designed to ensure thorough consideration and debate. While the process can be lengthy and complex, it is a fundamental aspect of the American legislative system and democratic governance.