second reading

noun

1

: the stage in the British legislative process following the first reading and usually providing for debate on the principal features of a bill before its submission to a committee for consideration of details

2

: the stage in the U.S. legislative process that occurs when a bill has been reported back from committee and that provides an opportunity for full debate and amendment before a vote is taken on the question of a third reading

Examples of second reading in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The ordinance would require a second reading and vote before taking effect. —Tammy Murga, San Diego Union-Tribune, 2 Apr. 2024

Despite delays to the second reading due to a large number of amendments put forward by opposition parties, in December 2023 officials voted to approve the bill with 248 MPs voting in favor of legalization. —Sarah Sinclair, Forbes, 15 Feb. 2024

According to the order of service, Prince William was set to deliver the second reading. —Janine Henni, Peoplemag, 28 Feb. 2024

During a second reading of the draft legislation Tuesday, lawmakers pledged their support for the measure one after another. —Lily Kuo, Washington Post, 19 Mar. 2024

The ordinance will return for final approval — known as a second reading — next month. —Judith Prieve, The Mercury News, 28 Feb. 2024

The ordinance will return for a second reading and final approval next month. —Judith Prieve, The Mercury News, 28 Feb. 2024

Millard said to become policy, the board will give the draft a second reading at its next meeting, which is scheduled for Feb. 27. —Alec Johnson, Journal Sentinel, 16 Feb. 2024

The bill now goes to the Senate Floor for second reading. —Sarah Bowman, The Indianapolis Star, 30 Jan. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1647, in the meaning defined at sense 1