A law new is legislation that has been proposed, debated, and passed by Congress or another legislative body. It becomes law when it is signed by the President and has become a part of the United States Code (or statutes). Often, a committee write a report on the bill that explains its purpose and scope. This is an important element of the bill’s legislative history and is used by courts and the public to understand the meaning of a statute. See How Our Laws Are Made for more information. BILL: Draft of a proposed law presented to a legislative body for consideration.