What Is The Process That Goes On Before A Rule Is Made Into A Law?
A statute often begins as an idea to help society function better. The idea can come from a citizen, an advocacy group, another state, or an elected representative. The idea is written down in rulemaking language and presented to the appropriate legislative body: (the elected representative’s colleagues in Congress or in a state legislature). Once an idea is written down and presented to the appropriate legislative body, it becomes a bill. A bill is reviewed by legislative committees and read by elected representatives. Generally, for a bill to become law, it must be supported by a majority of the state legislature or congress. If a bill is supported by a majority of the state legislature or congress, it is considered to have “passed” and is sent to the Governor of the State or the President of the United States for their approval. If the Governor supports and signs a bill, it becomes state law. If a President supports and signs a bill, it becomes federal law. Once a bill has been signed into law, it is codified (reduced to, or arranged into a statute).
Other Legal Basics FAQs
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Q:
What Is A Statute?
A: A statute is a rule that was passed into law by the federal government or a state’s legislature. A collection of several statutes make up … More -
Q:
How Do I Find A Statute?
A: A statute can be found in “Codes” in most law libraries or online by going to the state’s website. Codes are divided into subject area, or … More -
Q:
How Do I Know Which Statute I Violated?
A: If you have violated a state or federal statute, and you have been charged with a crime, the prosecution will let you know which statute you are accused of violating … More -
Q:
Sometimes On Tv I Hear Someone Say That The Federal Government Or The State Government Does Not Have "jurisdiction." What Does That Mean?
A: Jurisdiction determines who has the authority to enforce the statutes/laws. If a person breaks a federal law, the federal government is said to have jurisdiction … More -
Q:
What Is A Crime?
A: A crime is the breaking of a law (statute) contained in the Federal or State Codes. A crime is subject to punishment that can include fines, probation, prison or any … More -
Q:
What Is A Temporary Restraining Order (TRO)?
A: A temporary restraining order, also known as a TRO, can be ordered by a court of law that prevents one person from harming another. A TRO is usually granted in … More
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