Committee approves draft to clarify return and reconvening process for vetoed bills

The Legislative Procedures and Arrangements Committee on Sept. 20 approved an original draft that clarifies procedures for returning and reconsidering bills vetoed after the Assembly adjourns sine die.

Emily Thompson, legislative council staff, told members the draft requires the Secretary of State to return vetoed legislation to the Assembly “upon request” so that the Assembly can act if reconvened. Thompson said the change was intended to address a 1991 Attorney General opinion and the statutory ambiguity about whether the Assembly could act on post-adjournment vetoes.

Thompson described the bill as simplifying an earlier “polling” approach and specifying that if Legislative Management determines the Assembly should be called back to reconsider vetoed legislation, the convening date would be the third Wednesday in June. She said the date was chosen to provide members scheduling certainty while remaining at least 21 days after the governor’s 15‑day veto period, giving time for budget- related vetoes to be addressed before July 1.

Committee members questioned whether the third Wednesday in June gives adequate time for budget bills and whether the authority to request return of vetoed bills should rest with administrative clerks (secretary of the Senate or chief clerk of the House) or with chamber leaders (President Pro Tem and Speaker). Thompson said the draft could be amended to change the named requester if the committee preferred.

After limited additional discussion, Senator Roars moved to approve the original draft; Representative Haggard seconded. The committee called the roll and the motion carried. The committee directed staff to continue drafting clarifying language as the bill proceeds through the usual session review process.

Next steps: The approved original draft will be further scrutinized by staff and may be amended in committee and during the legislative session.