How Bills Become Law

Standing Committee

A permanent committee that carries over from one Congress to the next, usually focusing on a specific policy area, with stable membership.

Rules Committee

the "traffic cop" of the House that sets the legislative calendar and issues rules for debate on a bill

Open Rule (House)

A procedural rule in the House of Representatives that allows amendments to a bill (as long as they are germane)

Closed Rule (House)

A procedural rule in the House of Representatives that prohibits any amendments to bills

Unanimous Consent Agreement

A resolution in the Senate restricting debate and limiting amendments to bills on the floor; usually negotiated by the majority and minority leaders

Filibuster

A lengthy speech designed to delay or kill the vote on a bill; used only in the Senate

Cloture

A procedure for terminating debate, especially filibusters, in the Senate; requires at least 60 votes

Conference Committee

A special joint committee appointed to reconcile differences between the House and Senate versions of a bill.

Pocket Veto

An indirect veto that occurs when Congress adjourns within 10 days of submitting a bill to the president, who simply lets it die by neither signing nor vetoing it.

Which bills must begin the House of Representatives?

"All bills for raising revenue" or imposing taxes

Discharge Petition

Petition that, if signed by majority (218) of the House of Representatives' members, will pry a bill from committee and bring it to the floor for consideration.