Most Americans have seen the Schoolhouse Rock segment about how a bill becomes a law. The cartoon covers the essentials, but the real legislative process is messier and shaped by forces the cartoon doesn't mention.
Step 1: Introduction
Any member of Congress can introduce a bill. Revenue bills must originate in the House — that's a constitutional requirement. Thousands of bills are introduced in every two-year Congress; the vast majority die without a vote.
Step 2: Committee
The bill is referred to committees with jurisdiction over the subject. Committee chairs control which bills get a hearing. This is where most legislation dies.
Step 3: Floor Debate
In the Senate, any senator can filibuster — blocking a vote indefinitely. Ending a filibuster requires 60 votes, which is why 60 has become the de facto threshold for major legislation.
Step 4: The President
Once both chambers pass identical text, the president can sign it, veto it, or do nothing. A two-thirds majority in both chambers can override a veto.