Lawmaking Process

From Idea to Bill
Where legislators get their ideas for new legislation.
How bills are drafted and introduced for consideration.

From Bill to Law
How a bill makes its way through committee hearings and floor sessions.
What the governor's role in the lawmaking process is.

Testifying Before a Committee
How to exercise your right to speak on public issues and be heard by your elected representatives.

Contacting Legislators
How to contact legislators by mail, phone, or e-mail.

Reading a Bill
A section-by-section look at a bill and what each part means.

Finding and Tracking Bills
How to use a free online service called LAWS to find out a bill's text, status, sponsors, schedule, and more.