If you’ve ever tried to follow a piece of legislation online, you’ve probably seen a string of confusing status updates like “introduced,” “referred to committee,” “reported with amendments,” or “tabled.” But what do all these terms mean—and how do they impact whether a bill actually becomes law?
In this article, we’ll break down the most common legislative status terms in simple, plain English, so you can track laws with confidence and clarity.
1. Introduced
This is the starting line for any bill. A bill is “introduced” when a lawmaker—either a state legislator or a member of Congress—officially submits it to their chamber (House or Senate). This gives the bill a tracking number (like H.R. 432 or S. 1102), a title, and a description.
Why it matters: Once a bill is introduced, it becomes part of the public record and can start moving through the legislative process. It’s the earliest point where citizens can begin paying attention—and speaking out.
2. Referred to Committee
After a bill is introduced, it’s typically sent to a committee that handles legislation related to its topic. For example, a healthcare bill might go to the Health Committee, or a tax bill to the Ways and Means Committee.
Why it matters: Committees are where most bills die. If a committee doesn’t review, amend, or advance the bill, it never makes it to a vote. That’s why it’s crucial to track which committee a bill has been assigned to—and whether that committee is even planning to hear it.
3. In Committee / Under Review
When a bill is listed as “in committee,” that means it’s actively under review by lawmakers in that group. They may:
- Hold hearings with experts and the public
- Debate the bill’s details
- Propose changes (called amendments)
- Vote on whether to move it forward
Why it matters: This is your best opportunity to influence a bill. Committees often welcome public input during this stage. Many allow residents to submit testimony or attend hearings—either in person or online.
4. Reported Out of Committee
If a committee finishes reviewing a bill and decides to advance it, they “report it out.” This means the bill is passed along for broader debate and a full chamber vote.
Why it matters: A bill that is reported out of committee is one step closer to becoming law. It’s no longer stuck in the weeds—it’s headed to the main floor for more public attention and political negotiation.
5. First/Second/Third Reading
Many legislatures require a bill to be read multiple times during its journey through the chamber:
- First Reading: The bill is introduced and formally entered into the record.
- Second Reading: The bill is debated and amended by the full chamber.
- Third Reading: The final version of the bill is reviewed before the final vote.
Why it matters: These stages help prevent surprise changes and give lawmakers (and the public) time to review each version before final approval.
6. Tabled
If a bill is “tabled,” it has been set aside—either temporarily or permanently. Sometimes this is a polite way of killing a bill without voting it down.
Why it matters: A tabled bill is essentially paused, and it won’t move forward unless it’s revived by leadership or committee members. If you care about a bill that’s been tabled, now’s the time to speak up and ask why.
7. Passed
A bill is “passed” when it receives a majority vote in one chamber (House or Senate). But the job isn’t done—it must still pass the other chamber.
Why it matters: Passing one chamber is a major milestone, but it’s only halfway. The other chamber may make changes, leading to further negotiation.
8. In Conference Committee
When two versions of the same bill pass the House and Senate, but don’t match, a conference committee is formed. This small group of lawmakers negotiates a compromise.
Why it matters: The final version created here must be voted on again before it heads to the executive (Governor or President).
9. Enrolled / Sent to Governor or President
After both chambers agree on a final version, the bill is “enrolled” and sent to the executive for signature.
- Signed: The bill becomes law.
- Vetoed: The bill is rejected, but lawmakers may try to override it.
Why it matters: The final signature is what makes a bill official. Tracking a bill to this stage gives you full insight into its outcome.
Final Thoughts: Know the Language, Follow the Law
The legislative process can be slow, complex, and often opaque. But with the right understanding of terms like “in committee,” “tabled,” or “reported out,” you can become a more informed advocate and citizen.At LegislationTracker.net, we break down every step for you. Whether you’re watching a state education bill or a federal tax law, we’ll help you understand exactly where it stands—and what comes next.
