Summary Writing - Bill Summary Sheet Terms
Bill Type
- Legislation: This is applied to a standard bill, rather than a resolution, joint-resolution, amendment, etc. It is the most common type of legislation. Typically, this is the type of legislation when the prefix of the bill number is "HB," "H," "SB," "S," or some variation of that. However, this only applies if it is NOT a budget or budget-related bill, which would be labeled "Legislation-Appropriation."
- Legislation-Resolution: This is applied to legislation that is introduced as a simple resolution, as opposed a joint resolution. The prefix of the bill will typically read "HR" ("H Res" for Congressional bills) or "SR," or some variation of that.
- Legislation-Joint Resolution: This is applied to legislation that is introduced as a joint resolution, as opposed to a simple resolution. The prefix of the bill number will typically read "HJR" or "SJR."
- Legislation-Concurrent Resolution: This is applied to legislation that is introduced as a concurrent resolution, as opposed to a simple resolution or a joint resolution. The prefix of the bill number will typically read "HCR" or "SCR."
- Amendment: This is applied to an individual amendment to a piece of legislation. The prefix of the bill number for state votes will always read "Amdt" on the bill summary sheet. The prefix listed on the legislative website varies by state. The prefix of the bill number for Congressional votes will always read "H Amdt" or "S Amdt," depending on the chamber.
- Nomination: This is applied to legislation that is introduced as a nomination by the Executive Branch. The prefix of the bill number varies by state.
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