Final answer:
A bill becomes law in the U.S. through a multi-step process that includes introduction, committee review, debates, amendments, and approvals in both the House of Representatives and the Senate. If both chambers pass the bill and the President signs it, it becomes law. A veto by the President can be overridden by a two-thirds majority in both chambers.
Step-by-step explanation:
The process by which a bill becomes a law in the United States involves several steps. Initially, a bill is introduced in either the House of Representatives or the Senate, although bills that raise revenue must originate in the House. The bill is then referred to a committee, where it is subject to hearings, debate, and amendments. If the committee approves the bill, it goes to the full chamber for further debate and a vote.
Once the bill has passed one chamber, it moves to the other chamber where a similar process occurs. If both chambers approve the bill in identical form, it is then sent to the President for signature. If the President signs it, the bill becomes law. If the President vetoes it, Congress can override the veto with a two-thirds majority in both chambers. If the President takes no action for ten days while Congress is in session, the bill automatically becomes law.
If the bill is presented to the President within ten days of Congress adjourning and the President does not sign it, the bill fails through what is known as a pocket veto. This detailed process is designed to allow for checks and balances and ensure thorough consideration of legislation.