How a Bill Becomes a Law

3. The committee holds hearings to gather information and opinions on the bill from experts, stakeholders, and the public.
5. Action: If both chambers pass the bill, it is sent to the President for approval or veto.
7. The committee prepares a report detailing its findings and recommendations on the bill.
10. Committee: If the House and Senate versions of the bill differ, a conference committee is formed to reconcile the differences.
13. The bill is referred to a committee for review and consideration.
14. The committee may amend, revise, and rewrite the bill during the markup process.
15. If approved by the President or if a veto is overridden, the bill becomes law.

1. Members of the conference committee negotiate to reach a compromise version of the bill acceptable to both chambers.
2. Passage: The compromise bill is sent back to both chambers for a final vote.
4. The bill is introduced by a member of Congress in either the House of Representatives or the Senate.
6. Members of Congress discuss the bill’s merits, drawbacks, and potential impact during floor debate.
8. Override: Congress can override a presidential veto with a two-thirds majority vote in both chambers.
9. Amendments may be proposed and added to the bill during floor consideration.
11. Consideration: The bill is debated and voted on by the full chamber (House or Senate) in which it was introduced.
12. A final vote is taken by the full chamber on whether to pass the bill.