Legal Definitions - debate calendar

A debate calendar is a legislative schedule that lists specific bills, resolutions, or other matters designated for discussion and debate within a legislative body. It outlines the order and timing for these items to be brought before the chamber for consideration.

A debate calendar is an official schedule or list maintained by a legislative body (such as a parliament, congress, or city council) that outlines the specific bills, resolutions, or motions designated for formal discussion and debate on particular dates or in a specific sequence. It serves to organize the legislative process by setting priorities and allocating time for deliberation on proposed laws or policies.

• Example 1: National Legislature

  Imagine the national parliament of a country is preparing to discuss a complex new environmental protection bill. The parliamentary leadership, after consulting with various party whips, publishes the upcoming week's debate calendar. This calendar clearly lists the "Clean Air and Water Act" as the primary item for debate on Tuesday and Wednesday, specifying the allocated time for opening statements, amendments, and general discussion. This ensures all members of parliament are aware of when the formal deliberation on this significant piece of legislation will occur, allowing them to prepare their arguments and contributions.

• Example 2: Local Government Council

  A city council in a bustling metropolis is considering a new ordinance to regulate the use of electric scooters on public sidewalks. Before the next council meeting, the city clerk distributes the agenda, which functions as the debate calendar. It explicitly states that the "Electric Scooter Safety Ordinance" will be the second item on the agenda, following a presentation on urban planning, and will be open for council member debate for a maximum of 90 minutes. This structured schedule helps the council manage its time and ensures that the proposed ordinance receives dedicated discussion.

• Example 3: University Senate

  Consider a university's academic senate, composed of faculty and student representatives, which needs to review several proposed changes to the university's grading policy. The senate secretary circulates a document detailing the order of business for the next meeting. This document acts as a debate calendar, indicating that the "Revised Grading System Proposal" will be discussed immediately after the approval of the previous meeting's minutes, with specific time slots allocated for proponents, opponents, and general questions from senators. This organized approach ensures that each aspect of the policy change is thoroughly debated before a vote is taken.