Final answer:
A new bill in the legislature is first assigned to a standing committee, which holds significant power to research, amend, and vote on the bill before it can proceed to the full legislative chamber.
Step-by-step explanation:
A new bill in the legislature is first assigned to a standing committee. In the legislative process, standing committees in both the House and the Senate serve as the first point of discussion for proposed bills. Each committee specializes in a particular area, such as agriculture, transportation, or education, and they research, investigate, and debate legislation within their purview. Moreover, these committees are powerful as they have the authority to amend legislation, hold hearings with experts, and ultimately decide whether a bill should be sent to the full chamber for a vote or die in committee.