From introduction through committee review
A bill's journey begins when a member of Congress introduces it, assigning it a number (H.R. for House, S. for Senate). It then goes to a committee with jurisdiction over its subject matter, where the real legislative debate happens. Most bills die here: the committee either rejects it, revises it extensively, or simply never votes on it.
Committees hold hearings with experts and stakeholders, allowing both supporting and opposing voices to shape the text. Once the committee votes to approve, the bill is reported to the full chamber with a detailed explanation of changes made.
Chamber floor debate and cross-chamber negotiation
After the originating chamber (House or Senate) debates and votes, the bill travels to the other chamber, where it repeats the committee and floor process. This is where versions often diverge: the Senate may add amendments the House rejected, creating two different texts.
If both chambers pass different versions, a conference committee reconciles them. This committee includes members from both chambers who must agree on every change. Both chambers then vote on the final conference report. If either chamber rejects it, the bill fails or must return to conference.
Presidential signature and veto power
Once Congress passes an identical bill, it goes to the president. The president can sign it into law, veto it (sending it back to Congress for a two-thirds override vote), or take no action. If the president takes no action while Congress is in session, the bill becomes law after 10 days. If Congress adjourns before those 10 days expire, the bill dies as a pocket veto.