The legislative process is governed by rules, laws and procedures, making it somewhat mechanical in nature (and also confusing). Although the legislative process is long and complex, all laws begin as ideas. An idea for a law can come from anyone; an individual or group of citizens, a legislator or legislative committee, the executive or judicial branch, or a lobbyist.

There are six types of measures: a bill, joint resolution, concurrent resolution, resolution, joint memorial and memorial. A bill, the most common type of measure, is a proposal for a law. All statutes, except those initiated by the people or referred to the people by the Legislative Assembly, must be enacted through a bill.

The path of a bill, from the time it is just an idea to the time it arrives at a Governor’s desk for approval, is paved with many detours. In order for a bill to become law, it must be passed by both houses in the identical form. A bill may be introduced in either the Senate or the House with the exception of revenue bills which must originate in the House.

These are just the very basics. Now that you know a little more, do a little investigating and get involved. Find causes that you’re interested in and learn about the legislation that is being put forth. You’re even lucky enough to be DC residents, so why not sit in on a Senate session, or two? You’ll definitely be more the wiser for having done so and your Poli Sci professor might even give you some extra credit!

For more detailed information about the process of passing a bill, click here. Also, check out the video after the jump!