Changes to the passage of legislation in the NSW Legislative Assembly

18/10/2007

Changes have been made to the way in which legislation passes through this state's lower house, the Legislative Assembly. After a Bill is introduced the member responsible for the Bill gives an **agreement in principle speech **(formerly the second reading speech), outlining the purpose of and reasons for the Bill.

The agreement in principle debate is adjourned, usually for at least five days. Amendments may be moved to the question for a bill to be agreed to in principle - in order for the house to obtain further information (for example, by referring the bill to a committee for consideration and report). At the conclusion of that debate, if no member requests that the bill be considered in detail and if no motion is moved "That the Bill be not passed" the speaker will declare the Bill to have passed the Legislative Assembly.

For further information, visit the New South Wales Parliament web site >

18 October 2007