"In The Know" - Veto 411

We’ve already covered the path of a bill—part 1. Let’s pick up where we left off.

If a bill passes the floor, it crosses chambers and starts the process again on the other side. If it doesn’t receive a majority vote, it’s marked as failed. There are some exceptions, but for the most part, that’s the end of the road.

BUT WAIT, there’s more…

•  If the second chamber passes the bill without changes, it moves straight to Governor Armstrong’s desk for review and signature. No detours, no amendments—just a fast track to the Executive Branch. (we'll get into the changes another day)

Once a bill reaches the Governor, he has three options:​

1. Sign it into law.
2. Veto it—either fully or by striking specific sections (line-item veto for appropriations bills).
3. Take no action. If he does nothing within 3 days during session or 15 days after adjournment, the bill automatically becomes law without a signature.

DIGGING DEEPER INTO #2: If the Governor vetoes a bill, there are two possible outcomes:

1. The bill fails completely and goes no further.
2. The Legislature attempts an override, which requires a two-thirds vote in both chambers.
   • The override must start in the chamber where the bill originated—if that chamber doesn’t get the votes, the bill is done.
   • If both chambers reach the two-thirds threshold, the veto is overturned, and the bill becomes law despite the Governor’s objections.

And that, my friends, is the rest of the story.

FUN FACTS
* JULY 1: Agency Appropriation bills become effective (this ensures alignment with the state's fiscal year)
* AUG 1: Policy bills become effective
EXCEPTION: If there was an emergency clause put onto the bill - they become law and go into effect the day they are signed. Emergency clauses required a 2/3 majority from both chambers.