A bill is a proposal for a new law or a change in an existing law. It must pass through several stages in Parliament before becoming an Act. Understanding the law-making process is important for the polity section of competitive exams.
Types of Bills
- Ordinary Bills – deal with any matter other than financial subjects.
- Money Bills – deal with taxes and government spending (Article 110).
- Financial Bills – deal with financial matters but are not money bills.
- Constitutional Amendment Bills – change the Constitution under Article 368.
Stages of an Ordinary Bill
An ordinary bill goes through three readings in each House:
- First Reading – the bill is introduced and its title is read.
- Second Reading – detailed discussion and voting on each clause.
- Third Reading – final voting on the bill as a whole.
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Role of the Other House
After passing in one House, the bill goes to the other House. If both Houses disagree, the President may call a joint sitting under Article 108. The Rajya Sabha has limited power over money bills and can delay them for only 14 days.
President's Assent
After both Houses pass the bill, it goes to the President. The President can give assent, withhold assent or return the bill (except a money bill) for reconsideration. Once the President signs, the bill becomes an Act.
Quick Revision Points
- A bill becomes an Act after the President's assent.
- Four main types: Ordinary, Money, Financial and Amendment bills.
- Every bill goes through three readings.
- Money bills are defined under Article 110.
- Rajya Sabha can delay a money bill only for 14 days.
- Joint sitting is called under Article 108.
- The President can return an ordinary bill once for reconsideration.