Drafting
Committee
Floor Action
Concurrence
Governor
100

What is the first step in the legislative process? 

The idea for a bill is suggested. 

100

What does a committee do? 

Studies bills in small groups focused on a specific topic. 

100

What is the Rules Committee? 

The committee that decides which bills will be put on the floor calendar. 

100

What is concurrence?

When both the House and Senate pass the exact same version of a bill. 

100

What is the final step for a bill?

It must be signed by the Governor to become law. 

200

What is a "prefiled" bill?

A bill written and ready to go before the session starts. 

200

What is "negative testimony"?

Opposition expressed during a public hearing that can affect the bill. 

200

What happens during floor debate?

Members can propose amendments and speak for or against the bill. 

200

What happens if the two houses disagree?

They may call a conference committee to negotiate a compromise. 

200

What can the Governor do to a bill?

The Governor can sign it, veto it, or not take action. 

300

Who can suggest ideas for a bill?

Legislators, the Governor, agencies, interest groups, and citizens. 

300

What happens during a public hearing? 

Citizens can share their opinions about the bill. 

300

What is a "floor amendment"?

Changes to the bill proposed during the floor debate. 

300

What is a concurence committee?

A group made up of both Representatives and Senators that negotiates a compromise. 

300

What is a referendum?

A process where citizens can vote to approve or reject a bill. 
400

What happens when a bill is dropped in the Hopper? 

It gets a number and is assigned to a committee. 

400

What is the purpose of a fiscal committees? 

To handle budget issues and decide how to allocate funds. 

400

What does it mean to "x-file" a bill?

To send a bill to the "x-files," meaning it likely won't go to the floor this session. 

400

What does it mean for a bill to be amended?

Changes are made to the bill based on feedback or debate. 

400

What happens during "Sine Die"?

The last day of session when both chambers adjourn without setting a date to return. 

500

What is the role of stakeholders in drafting? 

They help research the issue and write the bill. 

500

What is a "leadership pull"?

When leaders decide to bring an important bill to the floor for debate without a committee vote. 

500

What is the "Necessary To Implement the Budget"?

Bills that are reqeuired to implement budget plans and may get fast-tracked. 

500

What happens if a bill passes with bipartisan support?

It can move through the second chamber quickly due to broad agreement. 

500

What does it mean if a bill becomes a law?

It has successfully passed through all legislative steps and been signed by the Governor.