legislates

Legislates is the present tense form of legislate, meaning to make or enact laws by a legislative body. The term describes the actions of governments and parliaments as they create statutory rules that govern society. In common usage, to legislate is to adopt laws, often through a formal process that assigns legal force to the outcomes of deliberation and vote.

In most political systems, the process of legislation involves several stages. A proposed measure, or bill, is drafted and introduced by members of the legislature or by a government ministry. It is typically referred to committees for examination, possibly amended, and then debated and voted on in one or more chambers. If the bill passes, it is sent to the head of state or the executive for approval or veto. In many jurisdictions, a successful bill becomes law after assent and is subsequently published in statutes or codes, sometimes with a specified effective date. Some laws may require additional steps, such as referendum approval or judicial review before taking effect.

The scope of legislation includes statutes, acts, and ordinances that establish rights, duties, and public policies. Regulations and administrative rules are usually derived from or empowered by law but are distinct from the primary acts themselves. Legislative systems vary widely—between unicameral and bicameral legislatures, and between common law and civil law traditions—yet the core function remains: to authorize and shape the legal framework within a country or jurisdiction. See also legislation, legislature, and legislate.