Before you arrive at Tar Heel Boys State, you are responsible for writing a bill to submit at registration. Follow the steps listed below on How to Write a Bill and type or print your bill in the below template.
You will either turn in a paper copy at registration or email your electronic version to info@tarheelboysstate.org.
It will be reviewed and assigned to either the House or Senate for consideration into law.
How to Write a Bill
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Determine a Topic
Brainstorm or review newspaper headlines for topics
Think about how society could improve; where can the government help?
Look at past bills in the state legislature that may spark inspiration
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Research Your Topic
No plagiarizing the current legislation, but feel free to use it as a springboard
Is your topic debatable?
Is your topic appropriate?
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Drafting Your Bill
Title
Enacting Clause “Be it enacted by the Tar Heel Boys State General Assembly of the State of North Carolina to (your bill title goes here)
Section I - This is the purpose of your bill. Make it brief, 2-3 sentences
Section II - This is the body. Use facts to support your bill. Include an explanation of why your bill is important
Section III - This is the funding statement. If no funding is needed, please state so
Section IV - This is the penalties. Will there be consequences for noncompliance or violating this bill?
Section V - This is the effective date. Remember your bill cannot go into effect before the THBS Governor signs the bill into law. The bill can read that it is “immediately invoked upon being signed into agreement,” that will cover the effective date
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Points to Consider
Bill Length — we do not limit how short or long your bill is to be, but remember you want to get your bill passed
Proper Spelling and Grammar — make sure to proof read your bill
Bill Conformity — make sure your bill conforms to the bill format (numbering included)
Passage — make sure your topic is one that others in your legislative body will support
Template for THBS Bill
Make sure you have your resolution ready to turn in at the Tar Heel Boys State registration. Your resolution must be on the Blank House Bill form posted here. You can print it out and write on the form if needed. Also make sure your name is on the resolution when you turn it in (you can list your name as one of the first sponsors). We suggest you make a copy to keep with you during the week. Bill sponsors will be found after the legislative sessions begin. Again, this resolution must be turned in at registration on Sunday or via email to tarheelboysstate@gmail.com.