How to Read Legislation in 7?Steps

Originally published Thomas McGregor – Medium

Every legislator you follow online will post about bills they’ve had dealings in proposing and getting signed into law. This is because getting bills signed into law is purposefully hard to accomplish in the United?States.

Don’t allow the sometimes-bombastic rhetoric online to confuse or distract you from what the bills do.

Simply, there are three things you’ll want to answer:

1. What did the bill change?
2. What will/could the bill do?
3. What is the bill connected to?

Understanding legislation is like deciphering the blueprint of a nation’s rules and regulations. These documents, often complex and detailed, are the foundation upon which laws are built. Here’s a concise guide to mastering the art of reading legislation:

1. Locating Legislation

• Government Websites: Most legislative bodies have official websites where they publish proposed and enacted laws.
• Library of Congress or Legal Databases: Resources like these offer comprehensive collections of legislative texts.

2. Structure Decoded

• Title and Numbering: Legislation is typically organized into titles, chapters, sections, and subsections. This structure helps navigate the document efficiently.
• Table of Contents: A roadmap to the legislative landscape, allowing quick access to specific topics of interest.

3. Language and Definitions

• Definitions Section: Legislation often includes definitions crucial to understanding its scope. Refer to these definitions to interpret the intended meaning of key terms.
• Interpretation Aids: Some laws come with explanatory notes or summaries that simplify the understanding of complex provisions.

4. Comprehending the?Content

• Methodical Reading: Go section by section, grasping the purpose and scope of each. Take notes to retain important details.
• Referencing Cross-Sections: Sometimes, a section of legislation refers back or connects to other sections. Pay attention to these references for a comprehensive understanding.

5. Updates and Amendments

• Revision Checks: Legislation can undergo amendments. Ensure you’re consulting the most recent version to avoid misconstruing current laws.
• Tracking Changes: Understanding how new amendments modify existing laws is crucial. Follow the legislative history to track the changes made over time.

6. Seeking?Clarity

• Legal Assistance: Complex legislation might warrant legal counsel. Consult legal experts or legislative aides for clarification on intricate sections.
• Legislative Aids: Some legislative bodies offer guides or explanations designed to simplify the understanding of specific laws.

7. Application and Engagement

• Legal Compliance: Ensure compliance with the laws to avoid unintended repercussions.
• Advocacy and Feedback: If you identify areas for improvement or have concerns about the legislation, engage in public forums or communicate with lawmakers to advocate for change.

Reading legislation may seem like traversing a maze of legal jargon, but understanding these documents empowers citizens to comprehend the rules that govern them. By navigating the structure, language, and content of legislation, individuals can participate more effectively in shaping and adhering to the laws that shape their society.

Further Investigating:

• GovTrack.us: Tracking the U.S. Congress
• Find and contact elected officials | USAGov
• Congress.gov | Library of Congress
• LegiScan | Bringing People to the Process
• BillTrack50 | Federal & State Legislation Tracker