Understanding Legislation
A bill is an enumeration of specific provisions which if enacted will have the force of law. A resolution is simply a generalized statement expressing a conviction or sentiment. A resolution will generally center debate on the broad principles of the concept; a bill is more apt to delve into the merits of the specific provisions it contains. Although they are not necessary, a resolution may have whereas clauses, but a bill never has them. The use of both bills and resolutions will add variety to congress proceedings.
Resolutions
A simple resolution is passed by one house alone. Simple resolutions are usually generalized statements expressing the belief of
the group adopting them, and they do not have the force of law. Constitutional amendments fall into this category since they must be submitted to the states after they are passed by congress. Resolutions may be preceded by one or more whereas clauses, stating the principal reasons for adopting the resolution, but their number should be limited and may be omitted altogether.
Bills
A bill is an enumeration of specific provisions which if enacted will have the force of law. It must be definite; it must state exactly what is to be done or not to be done. A penalty must be stipulated or the law will not have force. A bill does not have "whereas clauses."
Preparing Legislation
In constructing your bill or resolution, be sure that the following procedures are followed:
· The bill or resolution must be typed. The typing must be double spaced, and the bill or resolution may not be longer than one page. Each line of a bill or resolution must be numbered.
· The first words of a bill are "Be It Enacted" following any whereas clauses the first words of a resolution are "Be It Resolved." A resolution may be preceded by one or more "whereas clauses" but bills and joint resolutions never have them.
· The language of a bill must always be in the imperative mood. That is, it must state exactly what is to be done and by whom. Bills and/or resolutions that do not conform to the NFL Congress guidelines may be rejected from consideration for the Student Congress calendar.