Committee of the whole

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The committee of the whole process provides an opportunity for senators to consider bills in detail. Amendments moved in committee of the whole seek to change, delete or add words in the bill that may affect the final content of the law. Under section 53 of the Constitution the Senate cannot amend a bill imposing taxation, or a bill appropriating money for the ordinary annual services of government (an appropriation bill). It also may not amend a bill in a way which will increase any proposed charge or burden. If the Senate wishes to make such amendments, it must request the House of Representatives to amend the bill on its behalf.

Consolidated statistics