Legislative Drafting

1 Credit · Level: Graduate, Undergraduate

Legislation is the process of implementing power through words. In that world, precise language produced through clear thinking is vital. Drafting effective legislation requires more than simply a good policy idea. You have to understand how certain words have been interpreted by agencies and courts. One simple sentence or where you place language in the code could trigger dangerous procedural traps in the House of Representatives or the Senate. Legislation, even of the most narrow sort, must deal with procedural, substantive and legal barriers any of which could frustrate your ultimate goals if not adequately neutralized. In this course we will map out the potential concerns and work through the best ways to craft good policy into effective legislation.