Washminster

Washminster
Washminster

Friday 4 February 2011

Bills compared

What does a bill look like? (no, not the ones you have to pay - we all know those well enough!). The term is used on both sides of the Atlantic for legislation under consideration by the Legislature (Parliament or Congress). One passed they become "Acts"

To see an example of a British Bill press here. (Parliamentary Voting System & Constituencies Bill)

To see an example of an American Bill press here. (Repealing the Job-Killing Health Care Law Act)

You'll note that the British title is neutral, whereas the practice in the US has been to make a statement with the job title.

Te Congressional legislative process is described here (For a more detailed explanation - read "How Our Laws are Made")

The UK Parliament's legislative process is described in outline here - and a committee report on the legislative process (which describes and suggests reforms) is available here.