What is a "bill"?

A "bill" is specifically defined as a proposed law that is submitted for debate and approval in a legislative body, such as Congress. The process begins when a member introduces the bill, and it undergoes various stages of discussion, amendment, and voting. If it successfully passes through these stages, it can become law once it is signed by the president (in the case of federal legislation) or the appropriate authority in state legislatures.

Understanding this definition is crucial for grasping how legislation is created and how democratic governance functions. This distinguishes it from other options: a document that cancels an existing law describes a repeal, a final law that is enforced by the government is known as an enactment, and a suggestion for new government policy may take various forms but does not adhere to the formal legislative process like a bill does. Thus, the unique role of a bill in legislative proceedings is foundational to the law-making process.