Drafting
What is the first step in the legislative process?
The idea for a bill is suggested.
What does a committee do?
Studies bills in small groups focused on a specific topic.
What is the Rules Committee?
The committee that decides which bills will be put on the floor calendar.
What is concurrence?
When both the House and Senate pass the exact same version of a bill.
What is the final step for a bill?
It must be signed by the Governor to become law.
What is a "prefiled" bill?
A bill written and ready to go before the session starts.
What is "negative testimony"?
Opposition expressed during a public hearing that can affect the bill.
What happens during floor debate?
Members can propose amendments and speak for or against the bill.
What happens if the two houses disagree?
They may call a conference committee to negotiate a compromise.
What can the Governor do to a bill?
The Governor can sign it, veto it, or not take action.
Who can suggest ideas for a bill?
Legislators, the Governor, agencies, interest groups, and citizens.
What happens during a public hearing?
Citizens can share their opinions about the bill.
What is a "floor amendment"?
Changes to the bill proposed during the floor debate.
What is a concurence committee?
A group made up of both Representatives and Senators that negotiates a compromise.
What is a referendum?
What happens when a bill is dropped in the Hopper?
It gets a number and is assigned to a committee.
What is the purpose of a fiscal committees?
To handle budget issues and decide how to allocate funds.
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.
What does it mean for a bill to be amended?
Changes are made to the bill based on feedback or debate.
What happens during "Sine Die"?
The last day of session when both chambers adjourn without setting a date to return.
What is the role of stakeholders in drafting?
They help research the issue and write the bill.
What is a "leadership pull"?
When leaders decide to bring an important bill to the floor for debate without a committee vote.
What is the "Necessary To Implement the Budget"?
Bills that are reqeuired to implement budget plans and may get fast-tracked.
What happens if a bill passes with bipartisan support?
It can move through the second chamber quickly due to broad agreement.
What does it mean if a bill becomes a law?
It has successfully passed through all legislative steps and been signed by the Governor.