The creation of new laws is a vital part of the legislative process. It allows elected officials to act on the needs and interests of their constituents, a practice that reflects democratic principles of representation and accountability. New laws are created in many different ways, including through a formal proposal known as a bill that undergoes a process of research, debate and voting to become law. This process involves multiple steps and requires the input of a variety of stakeholders, including members of Congress, state agencies, and citizens.

A bill is a proposed law that changes an existing one or creates a brand new policy. The idea for a bill can come from a member of Congress during an election campaign, from constituents, or even from a petition submitted to the Senate or House of Representatives. The legislation then goes through a series of steps, including being assigned to committees, where it is studied in depth and where lawmakers make changes to the bill before it is brought to the full chamber for a vote. This process allows for a more detailed analysis of the legislation and provides lawmakers with an opportunity to collaborate with colleagues across party lines, which can lead to more effective and well-rounded legislation.

After a bill has passed both houses of the legislature, it is sent to the Governor for final approval or rejection. If the bill is signed into law, it becomes part of the City Charter and Administrative Code. If the Governor vetoes the bill, it is returned to the legislative body that first passed it with a statement explaining why the Governor disagrees with its contents. The legislative body has 30 days to pass the bill again, overriding the Governor’s veto with a two-thirds majority vote.

This bill amends the city’s data breach notification laws to align them with requirements under the State’s SHIELD Act. Specifically, it requires the department to identify and notify persons whose private information was accessed, disclosed or used by a third party in the course of a data breach, as well as to report to affected persons on how the information was accessed or disclosed. Additionally, the bill establishes penalties for violations.