Formal Tax Legislation
Definition of 'Formal Tax Legislation'The process by which a proposed tax rule or tax change may become law in the United States. Formal tax legislation follows specific steps as defined by the U.S. Constitution. Formal tax legislation, like all federal laws, requires the consent of both houses of Congress (the Senate and the House of Representatives) and presidential approval. |
|
Investopedia explains 'Formal Tax Legislation'The formal tax legislation process must follow specific steps:1. The tax bill originates in the House of Representatives with what is referred to the Ways and Means Committee. Once committee members reach an agreement regarding the legislation, a proposed tax law is written. 2. The tax bill goes to the full House for debate, amendment and approval. 3. The tax bill is passed to the Senate where it is reviewed. The Finance Committee may rewrite the proposal before it is presented to the full Senate. 4. Following Senate approval, the tax bill is sent to a joint committee of House and Senate members who work to create a compromise version. 5. The compromise version is sent to the House and Senate for approval. 6. Once Congress passes the bill, it is sent to the president who will either sign it into law or veto the bill. 7. In the event the president vetoes the tax bill, Congress can override the veto with a two-thirds vote of each house; if successful, the tax bill becomes law without the signature of the President. Citizens can influence tax laws through the informal tax legislation process, which includes contacting members of Congress and elected officials, attending town or county meetings, participating in lobbying efforts, circulating and signing petitions and by voting for particular candidates. |
Related Definitions
Articles Of Interest
-
Saver's Tax Credit: A Retirement Savings Incentive
Here's another reason to put money toward your retirement nest egg. -
How To Save More For Your Retirement
The Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001 made it easier to prepare for the future. Will you be ready? -
Capital Gains Tax 101
Find out how taxes are applied to your investment returns and how you can reduce your tax burden. -
How International Tax Rates Impact Your Investments
International investors need to be aware of the staggering correlation between tax rates and economic performance. -
What Is Fiscal Policy?
Learn how governments adjust taxes and government spending to moderate the economy. -
The U.S. National Spending And Debt
We are looking at what could be the official year of the Federal Budget, or, more specifically, our debt and how we will manage it for many years to come. -
Has Income Tax Become A Class Tax On The Poor?
With more than 33% of American families falling close to the poverty line despite their adult members holding full-time employment, a rising number of citizens are being forced to pay a rate ... -
How The 2014 Obama Budget Could Affect Your Finances
Depending on which estimate you believe, Obama's proposed budget would raise the tax bill of a household with a yearly income of $50,000 to $75,000 between $63 and $100 per year. However, that’s ... -
Austerity: When The Government Tightens Its Belt
When a government tightens its belt in tough economic times the entire nation feels the squeeze. -
How To Deduct Your Job Search Expenses
With approximately 12 million Americans out of a job right now, many people are spending significant dollars to be noticed by potential employers. Fortunately, some of these job-search costs ...
Free Annual Reports