from bill to law
Every bill has to start with an idea, the idea can come from anyone, even you. it must then be introduced by a senator or representative. Then it is sent to the appropriate committee
The Commitee Can:
- pass the bill
- mark up the bill with change
- replace it with a new on
- pigeonhole it (Ignore it and let die)
- kill it by majority vote
- hold a public hearing on the bill
During debate amendments can be added. The House only accepts relevant amendments. The Senate allows unrelated amendments (riders). The Rule committee sets as a time for debate in the House. In the Senate, senators can take advantage of the fillbuster and talk a bill to death. The filibuster can be ended if 3/5 of the members vote for cloture