How a bill becomes law

A bill is a proposed law. Before it can become law, it must pass through several stages in Parliament — and survive a vote at each one.

Three readings

A bill is debated three times (called “readings”). In between, a select committee studies it closely and the public can have their say by making a submission.

Becoming law

If a bill passes its third reading, the Governor-General signs it (“Royal assent”) and it becomes an Act — the official law of New Zealand. Click through each stage below to follow a bill’s journey.

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