Bill
Definition
A bill is a proposal for new legislation that is introduced in either chamber of Congress (House of Representatives or Senate). It must be passed by both chambers and signed by the President (or overridden) in order to become law.
"Bill" appears in:
Practice Questions (7)
- What are the two main options a president has when a bill comes to his desk?
- How does a bill become a law in Congress?
- What is the most likely effect if Congress passes a bill reducing corporate tax rates?
- What is it called when a committee refuses to let a bill proceed to floor debate?
- In what way is the Supreme Court's decision-making process comparable with how a bill becomes law?
- Who has the authority to veto a bill in the U.S. government?
- Who has the authority to propose a bill for lawmaking in Congress?
Related terms
Law: A law is a rule established by government through legislation.
Committee: A committee is a group within Congress that specializes in specific areas such as finance or foreign policy, and reviews bills before they are voted on.
Amendment: An amendment is a change or addition made to a bill, law, or constitution.
