How Indiana Laws Are Made
Understanding the Legislative Process
Every year, Indiana lawmakers introduce hundreds of bills that could affect our rights, communities, and everyday lives. But introducing a bill is just the beginning.
Before a proposal can become law, it must move through a series of hearings, debates, amendments, and votes. Some bills move quickly, others change significantly along the way, and many never make it to the governor’s desk.
Understanding this process can help you follow legislation, recognize when important decisions are being made, and know when you have an opportunity to make your voice heard.
Meet the Indiana General Assembly
The Indiana General Assembly is responsible for making state laws, approving the state budget, and representing Hoosiers in the legislative process.
It consists of two chambers:
Both chambers play a role in passing legislation. In most cases, a bill must pass both chambers in the same form before it can become law.
Indiana’s legislature meets in regular session each year. Odd-numbered years are generally longer, budget-writing sessions, while even-numbered years have shorter sessions.
How Does A Bill Become A Law?
A bill can take several paths through the Indiana General Assembly. It may be amended, advanced, returned for further consideration, or stopped entirely.
Explore the presentation below for a step-by-step look at how legislation moves through the Statehouse, from the moment a bill is introduced to the governor’s final consideration.
Remember: Not Every Bill Becomes Law! In Fact, Most Don’t
A bill can be changed, delayed, or stopped at almost any point in the process. Some never get a hearing, others fail to receive enough votes, and some are significantly rewritten before they pass.
That’s why it’s important to follow a bill’s progress throughout the session, not just when it’s first introduced.
Follow a Bill Through the Statehouse
Ready to put what you’ve learned into practice?
The Indiana General Assembly’s website lets you search for legislation and view bill text, amendments, committee assignments, legislative actions, and voting records.
The ACLU of Indiana also maintains a bill tracker highlighting legislation affecting civil rights and civil liberties, along with our positions on key proposals.
We are currently awaiting the 2027 session for new bills to monitor.
