Senate Voting Procedures

Senate voting procedures involve several steps. Bills introduced are often referred to committees for review. After committee approval, the bill is scheduled for a vote in the Senate chamber. Senators debate the bill before voting, and a simple majority (51 votes if all 100 Senators are present) is typically needed to pass it. Important votes may require a higher threshold, like a 60-vote supermajority to overcome a filibuster. Senators can vote in person, or occasionally by proxy. The results determine the bill's fate, which may then move to the House of Representatives or proceed to the President for approval.