What is the primary difference between a bill and a resolution in the Missouri legislature?

In the context of the Missouri legislature, the primary difference between a bill and a resolution lies in their purpose and function. A bill is an official proposal intended to create new laws or amend existing ones. When passed, bills require further legislative action and can become enforceable statutes once signed into law.

On the other hand, a resolution generally does not create or amend laws but rather expresses the legislature’s opinion, positions, or sentiments on various issues. Resolutions may also be used to address matters such as internal legislative procedures or to commemorate events, but they do not have the force of law that a bill does.

This distinction is critical for understanding legislative processes. Bills undergo rigorous processes, including committees and debates, culminating in votes in both chambers for passage. Resolutions, while still requiring some procedural steps, are more straightforward expressions and are used for non-binding purposes. By understanding these differences, one can grasp how legislation is proposed and enacted within the Missouri legislature.