Skip to content

The Legislative Process

The legislative process in the United States Congress is a complex series of steps that a bill must go through before it becomes law.

Step 1: Introduction of a Bill

A bill can be introduced in either the House or the Senate by a member of Congress.

Step 2: Committee Consideration

The bill is then referred to a committee for consideration. The committee may hold hearings, conduct research, and make changes to the bill.

Step 3: Floor Action

If the committee approves the bill, it is sent to the full House or Senate for a vote. The bill may be debated and amended on the floor.

Step 4: Presidential Action

If the bill passes both the House and the Senate, it is sent to the President for signature. If the President signs the bill, it becomes law. If the President vetoes the bill, it is sent back to Congress, where it can be overridden by a two-thirds vote in both chambers.