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Step 1: Idea Phase
In Step 1 of the Legislative Process, 'Bill' is merely an idea. This idea can originate from a concerned citizen, congressman who are in session, or from joint resolutions. http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=7266360872513258185# -
Step 2: Committee Phase
In Step 2 of the Legislative Process, 'Bill' has a "long, long wait while he's sitting in committee". Congressman "discuss and debate" whether or not 'Bill' is worthy enough to continue through the Legislative Process. -
Step 3: Public Hearings
In Step 3 of the Legislative Process, 'Bill' is discussed in public hearings. The pros and the cons are debated and then the committee votes on 'Bill'. If it passes with a majority, it's on to the next step! -
Step 4: House of Representatives
In Step 4 of the Legislative Process, 'Bill' is sent to the House of Representatives. They vote on 'Bill' - if he passes with 50% majority, he moves on to Step 5. -
Step 5: Senate
In Step 5 of the Legislative Process, 'Bill' enters the Senate. There he is voted on much like in Step 4. If he passes with 51% of the vote, he moves on to crucial Step 6! -
Step 6: The President
In the last step of the Legislative Process, two important events can occur to 'Bill'. First, if the President signs 'Bill', he becomes a Law. If the President vetoes 'Bill', he must go back to the House of Representatives and the Senate and pass with a 2/3 majority.
