A Bill Is Drafted

8% through the process

Last verified: June 2026

Step 1 of 128% through the process

What Happens

Any member of Congress can write a bill. Ideas come from legislators, constituents, lobbyists, or the president. The bill's author is called its "sponsor."

Details & Context

Most bills are never voted on — of the ~10,000 bills introduced each Congress, fewer than 5% become law.

Where in the Process?

This step happens early in the process, before the bill receives serious committee scrutiny.