Stortingsproposisjon

A stortingsproposisjon is a formal bill submitted by the Government to the Norwegian Parliament (Storting) for consideration and enactment. Proposals are the primary means by which the executive proposes new laws, amendments to existing laws, or budget measures. Each proposition is given a running number and a year, for example Prop. 1 (2023–2024).

Proposals are prepared by a government ministry, or groups of ministries, and introduced in the Storting by the responsible minister. They may address civil and criminal law, tax and budget issues, or constitutional matters.

After submission, the Storting assigns the proposition to the relevant standing committee, which examines the text, may hold hearings, and prepares a committee report with recommendations. The plenary then debates and votes on the proposal; most bills require majority support to pass. Proposals involving constitutional changes or major fiscal measures may follow stricter procedures.

If the Storting approves the proposition, it is promulgated by the King in Council and published as law in Norges lover, the official compilation of Norwegian statutes.

Stortingsproposisjon is distinct from Stortingsmelding, which is the government’s white paper outlining policy background and aims. The proposition itself contains the legal text to be enacted, while the Stortingsmelding provides context and policy justification. Both instruments operate within Norway’s parliamentary system to translate government policy into law.