click below
click below
Normal Size Small Size show me how
Who is Bill?
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Bill | A proposed law presented to a legislative body for consideration. |
| Joint resolution | A proposal for action that has the force of law when passed; usually deals with special circumstances or temporary matters. |
| Concurrent resolution | A statement of postion on an issue used by the House and Senate acting jointly; does not require the President's signature. |
| Resoulution | A measure relating to the business of either house, or expressing an opinion; does not have the force of law and does not require the President's signature. |
| Rider | Unpopular provision added to an important bill certain to pass so that it will "ride" through the legislative process. |
| Discharge petition | A procedure enabling members to force a bill that has been pigeonhold in committee onto the floor for consideration. |
| Subcommitee | Division of existing committee that is formed to address specific issues. |
| Committee of the Whole | A committee that consists of an entire legislative body; used for procedure in which a legislative body expedites its business resolving itself into a committee to itself. |
| Quorum | Least number of members who must be present for a legislative body to conduct business; majority. |
| Engrossed | To print a billvin its final form. |
| Tabled | Present formally for discussion or consideration at a meeting: "an MP tabled an amendment to the bill". |
| Fllibuster | Various tactics (usually long speeches) aimed at defeating a bill in a legislative body by preventing a final vote; associated with the U.S. Senate. |
| Cloture | Procedure that may be used to limit or end floor debate in a legislative body. |
| Veto | Cheif executive's power to reject a bill passed by a legislatiure; literally (Latin) "I forbid". |
| Pocket veto | Type of veto a chief executive may use after a legislature has adjourned; when the chief executive does not sugn or reject a bill within the time allowed to do so. |