The process of how a bill becomes a law in the U.S. involves several steps through Congress and the President. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
The process ensures debate, revision, and checks & balances.
Only about 5% of bills introduced actually become law.
The President has significant power to approve or reject bills.
Step 1: Bill Introduction
A member of Congress introduces a bill.
️ Step 2: Committee Review
Bill goes to a committee for study and amendments.
️ Step 3: House & Senate Vote
Both House & Senate debate and vote.
If versions differ, a Conference Committee resolves differences.
Step 4: President's Decision
Sign the bill →
Becomes law
Veto the bill →
Sent back to Congress
Pocket veto → If Congress adjourns, the bill dies in 10 days.
Step 5: Veto Override (If Needed)
Congress can override a veto with 2/3 vote in both chambers.
If successful →
Becomes law
Step 1: Bill Introduction
- A Congress member (House or Senate) drafts a bill.
- The bill is assigned a number (H.R. for House, S. for Senate).
- It goes to the appropriate committee for review.
️ Step 2: Committee Review
- The committee studies, debates, and amends the bill.
- A subcommittee may hold hearings and gather expert opinions.
- If approved, the bill moves to the House or Senate floor.
️ Step 3: House & Senate Vote
- House and Senate must approve the bill (majority vote).
- If both chambers pass different versions, they must reconcile differences.
- A Conference Committee drafts a final version.
Step 4: Presidential Approval
- The President has three options:
Sign the bill → Becomes law.
Veto the bill → Sent back to Congress.
Do nothing (pocket veto) → If Congress is in session, the bill becomes law after 10 days; if not, it dies.
Step 5: Veto Override (If Needed)
- If the President vetoes the bill, Congress can override it with a 2/3 majority in both chambers.
- If successful, the bill becomes law despite the veto.
Key Takeaways
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Here’s a simple flowchart of how a bill becomes a law in the U.S.:
Step 1: Bill Introduction
A member of Congress introduces a bill.
️ Step 2: Committee Review
Bill goes to a committee for study and amendments.
️ Step 3: House & Senate Vote
Both House & Senate debate and vote.
If versions differ, a Conference Committee resolves differences.
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Sign the bill →
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Veto the bill →
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Pocket veto → If Congress adjourns, the bill dies in 10 days.
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Congress can override a veto with 2/3 vote in both chambers.
If successful →
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