Connecticut Legislation 101

How does a Bill Become a Law in Connecticut?

01

Proposal & Drafting

Ideas for bills can come from legislators or from members of the public. Each bill is read, titled, numbered and sent to the appropriate committee or chamber for further study or debate. 

02

Bill Introduction

After the bill is drafted, it is introduced in either the House of Representatives or the Senate for review or possible referral to committee. 

03

Committee Review

Committees can hold hearings, make changes, or decide not to move it forward. Citizens may testify at a public hearing during this time for or against the proposed bill. 

04

Voting Process

If the bill passes review, it moves to the other chamber for a similar process. 

05

Executive Approval

The bill is sent to the Governor who can sign it into law or veto it. If the Governor vetoes a bill, it may still pass if each chamber approves it with 2/3 votes of its entire membership. 

Download a printable version of Connecticut's Legislative process to share with your colleagues, volunteers, community members, and others interested in advocacy. Click here for for a more in-depth summary of the life of a bill.

Elected Officials 101

Federal

Connecticut has 2 senators and 5 regional representatives at the federal level. These elected officials represent Connecticut's interests at the federal level by serving in the senate or House of Representatives.


Senators: Chris Murphy, Richard Blumenthal

Representatives: Jim Himes, Rosa DeLauro, John Larson, Jahana Hayes, and Joe Courtney.

State

State senators and representatives create and pass laws for the state. The Connecticut State Senate has 36 members, and the State House of Representatives has 151 members.


Find your legislators here.

Local

Depending on your location, different officials may serve you. The most relevant local elected officials may be:

  • first selectperson/mayor
  • selectperson/alderperson/council member
Share by: