Final answer:
To 'pigeonhole' a bill means to set it aside or ignore it, preventing its progress in the legislative process. This tactic is often used to delay or kill bills that may be unpopular or challenging to pass.
Step-by-step explanation:
To 'pigeonhole' a bill means to set it aside or ignore it, preventing it from progressing through the legislative process. In the context of politics and lawmaking, 'pigeonholing' refers to the act of delaying or stalling a bill by not allowing it to be discussed, debated, or voted on. This can happen at various stages of the legislative process, such as in committee or on the floor.
For example, if a bill is seen as controversial or if lawmakers do not see it as a priority, they may choose to pigeonhole it by not assigning it to a committee or keeping it stuck in a committee without taking any action. Pigeonholing a bill effectively prevents it from becoming law.
It is important to note that pigeonholing a bill is a strategic decision made by lawmakers and can have significant consequences for the bill's prospects of becoming law. It is often used as a tactic to delay or kill bills that may be unpopular or challenging to pass.