MASB’s Legislative Handbook is a great resource for new board members, and a great refresher for veterans, to understand the legislative process, engage legislators and conduct successful grassroots advocacy. Let’s take a basic look at how a bill becomes a law in eight steps:
Bill is introduced in the House or Senate and receives first reading.
In committee, the bill is discussed and debated and may receive public hearings and other actions.
Revisions are made to the bill before second reading, recommendations are considered and amendments may be offered and adopted. The bill advances to third reading.
At the conclusion of the third reading, the bill is either passed or defeated by a roll call vote.
If bill passes, it goes to the other chamber where the same procedure is followed. If passed by both House and Senate, the bill goes to the governor.
If the bill is passed in a different form by the second house, the bill is returned to its house of origin. If house accepts the changes, the bill is sent to the governor. If changes are rejected, the bill is sent to a conference committee to resolve differences; if unsuccessful, a second conference committee may be appointed.
The governor has 14 days after receiving the bill to consider it.
If the governor vetoes a bill, the legislature may override the veto by a two-thirds vote, bill may be tabled or referred to a committee.
