The legislative process: Step Four
Bill Goes before Full Chamber

After a bill is approved by the committee, it is said to be on “second reading.” The title and bill number are again read to the chamber and the clerk or secretary also informs the membership (either the Senate or House of Representatives, depending on the bill’s house of origin) if any amendments have been filed. Bills that are on second reading can still be amended. Regardless of whether there is an amendment, the full chamber must vote to pass the bill to keep it alive and under consideration.

The bill next moves on to “third reading.” The title and bill number are read for a third time and, at this point, discussion and a vote on the bill (with all amendments) take place in the full chamber. The chamber can vote to approve or not to approve a bill. In general, a simple majority vote is required to pass the bill.

After May 31, however, bills that are to take effect before June 1 of the following year (this means virtually all legislation) must receive a three-fifths majority vote in order to pass. Due to this increase in the voting requirement, the legislature generally attempts to adjourn its spring session by the end of May. If the bill is approved, all amendments, if any, that were adopted are incorporated into the text of the bill. This version, called an “engrossed” bill, is then sent to the second chamber. For example, if the House approves a House bill, it then moves to the Senate.

Continue to Step Five: Bill goes to second chamber