How a Bill Becomes a Law

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Bill

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A proposed piece of legislation that is introduced in either the House of Representatives or the Senate.

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Committee

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A group of legislators appointed to consider and make recommendations on bills.

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Subcommittee

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A smaller group within a committee that focuses on specific aspects of a bill.

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Draft

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The initial version of a bill, which is written and revised before being introduced.

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Hearings

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Meetings where experts, officials, and the public can present their views on a bill.

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Provisions

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Specific clauses or sections within a bill that outline its details and requirements.

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Markup

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The process by which a committee or subcommittee revises a bill, often involving detailed examination and amendment.

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Rules Committee

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A committee in the House of Representatives that determines the rules for debate and amendment of a bill.

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Amend

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To make changes or additions to a bill.

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Conference Committee

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A temporary panel formed to reconcile differences in bills passed by the House and Senate.