How are policy decisions made
How a bill becomes law Federal
A note about budget decisions:
Budget decisions are also made through legislation but the process is slightly different. When a bill is passed it includes a fiscal note, the amount policymakers estimate the program will cost. This amount is included in the larger state budget legislation, a separate bill that must be passed by the legislature every year.
Each year the legislature starts with a recommended budget from the governor which it reviews and amends. Allocations for agencies and programs may be increased or decreased based on perceived needs or legislative priorities. The budget legislation must go through the same committee hearing and floor vote process before being signed by the governor.