click below
click below
Normal Size Small Size show me how
"Who Is Bill?"
Sarah Van Alstyne
| 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 position on an issue used by the House and Senate acting jointly; does not have the force of law and does not require the President's signature |
| resolution | 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 pigeonholed in committee onto the floor for consideration |
| subcommittee | division of existing committee that is formed to address specific issues |
| committee of the whole | a committee that consits of an entire legislative body; used for a procedure in which a legislative body expedites its business by resolving itself into a committee of itself |
| quorum | least number of members who must be present for a legislative body to conduct business; majority |
| engrossd | to print a bill in its final form |
| tabled | Present formally for discussion or consideration at a meeting |
| fillibuster | 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 taht may be used to limit or end floor debate in a legislative body |
| veto | chief executive's power to reject a bill passed by a legislature; literally (Latin) "I forbid" |
| pocket veto | type of veto a chief executive may use after a legislature has adjorned; when the chief executive does not sign or reject a bill within the time allowed to do so |