Bill Idea & Drafting | Introduction | Evaluation | Citizen Involvement | Passage

Bill Idea & Drafting

A bill proposes a new law or a change to an existing one. While citizens, special interest groups or the governor, among others, can propose bill ideas, only a Maryland senator or delegate may draft a bill and introduce it to the General Assembly.

Once a legislator decides to sponsor the idea, he or she works with Maryland's Office of Policy Analysis to draft a bill that is clear, concise and within constitutional limits. A delegate or senator's legislative aides and interns also have a significant role in the research portion of the bill drafting process.

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Related Links:
• Contact Your Legislator
• Registered Lobbyists in Maryland
• Official Bill Drafting Manual
• Search for a Bill

Source: Md. Department of Legislative Services
Kamille Whittaker - washingtonpost.com