One of the questions I am asked most about our work in Trenton, especially in recent months, is how a bill actually becomes law.
In the New Jersey state Legislature, every single member can introduce, or sponsor, a bill. However, of the thousands of bills introduced each session, a tiny fraction – less than 2% – ultimately become law.
The reason for that is because the process of turning a bill into law is a structured and thorough procedure, which is designed to ensure careful consideration before any proposal is enacted.
Once a bill is introduced, it is assigned a number and referred to a relevant committee, made up of legislators from both parties, for review.
The committee plays a crucial role in the legislative process. Its members analyze the bill, hold hearings where experts and the public can provide input, and may propose amendments to refine its language and intent. If the committee approves the bill, it advances to a second committee hearing, where a similar review process takes place.
If the bill clears the second committee, it advances to a full vote in the chamber where it was introduced.
Upon reaching the Senate or General Assembly floor, the bill undergoes further debate and discussion—this time before the entire chamber. Legislators may argue for or against its merits, propose additional amendments, and ultimately vote on its passage. If the bill receives a majority vote, it proceeds to the second legislative chamber, where it undergoes the same process of committee review, potential amendments, and a final vote.
If the second chamber makes changes, the bill must return to the original chamber for approval before moving forward.
Once both chambers pass the bill in identical form, it is sent to the governor for consideration. The governor has several options: sign the bill into law, veto it outright, or issue a conditional veto suggesting modifications. If the governor vetoes the bill, the Legislature can attempt to override the decision with a two-thirds majority vote in both houses. Alternatively, if the governor takes no action, the bill automatically becomes law after 45 days.
This rigorous process can take months – or even years – for a bill to become law. And throughout that entire time, we, along with other interested stakeholders, are constantly speaking with legislators to ensure we have their support, and if not, to determine what change, if any, can possibly bring them on board.
Additionally, many times there will be groups who are opposed to the bill, meaning our job would now be to convince legislators to listen to the merits of our arguments in an attempt to gain their support.
Understanding this process is essential for anyone seeking to influence legislation. It underscores the importance of advocacy, persistence, and coalition-building in shaping the laws that impact our communities.
But most importantly, when it comes to Trenton, patience and persistence is key to any success.
All the best,
Shlomo Schorr