How a Bill Becomes a Law in Virginia

1. An idea is brought to the attention of a legislator, usually by a constituent, interest group or local government in his district. The legislator studies the issue and determines whether to introduce a bill in order to change existing law or create a new one.
2. The legislator asks that the bill be drafted by General Assembly staff persons that compose all bills for legislators. He will then introduce the measure and upon doing so becomes known as its "patron."
3. The bill is referred to a committee, where it is discussed and eventually voted on. If a majority of the committee votes for the bill then it advances to the "floor", meaning that it will be considered by all members of that chamber (the House of Delegates or Senate).
4. If it reaches passage on the floor then it is referred to the other chamber, where the same process takes place.  The bill goes through committee, discussion and voting on the floor once again.
5. If passed by both the House of Delegates and the Senate, the legislation is sent to the Governor for his approval. He may sign the measure into law, veto the legislation, or make specific recommendations to the bill and send it back to the General Assembly for consideration during the one-day "veto" session.
6. If the Governor approves the legislation then it will become law on July 1 of the current year unless otherwise specified in the bill.