Why do all revenue bills originate in the House?
Sarah Martinez
Updated on February 02, 2026
The provision was part of a compromise between the large and small states. Smaller states, which would be over-represented in the Senate, would concede the power to originate money bills to the House, where states with larger populations would have greater control.
Where do bills originate in Congress?
Bills may originate in either the House of Representatives or the Senate with one notable exception. Article I, Section 7, of the Constitution provides that all bills for raising revenue shall originate in the House of Representatives but that the Senate may propose, or concur with, amendments.
What are bills for raising revenue?
Only bills to levy taxes in the strict sense of the word are comprehended by the phrase “all bills for raising revenue”; bills for other purposes, which incidentally create revenue, are not included.
How a tax bill becomes a law?
The tax bill is passed to the Senate where it is reviewed. In the event the president vetoes the tax bill, Congress can make the changes that the President wants or override the veto with a two-thirds vote of each house; if successful, the tax bill becomes law without the signature of the President.
Does a bill have to start in the House?
All laws in the United States begin as bills. Before a bill can become a law, it must be approved by the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, and the President.
In what House do all revenue bills start?
the House of Representatives
All Bills for raising Revenue shall originate in the House of Representatives; but the Senate may propose or concur with Amendments as on other Bills.
Why are regressive taxes considered unfair?
A regressive tax affects people with low incomes more severely than people with high incomes because it is applied uniformly to all situations, regardless of the taxpayer. While it may be fair in some instances to tax everyone at the same rate, it is seen as unjust in other cases.
Where does a revenue bill have to originate?
Under the U.S. Constitution, federal revenue bills are required to be initiated in the House of Representatives. Many state statutes have similar statutes, requiring revenue bills to originate in a particular house of the legislature, or that revenue bills must be passed before a certain number…
What does the constitution say about tax bills?
The Constitution says that “all bills for raising revenue shall originate in the House of Representatives” and that “Congress shall have the power to lay and collect taxes.”. Presidents can, and frequently do, recommend changes to current tax laws, but only Congress can make the changes.
Where does tax legislation originate in the United States?
Congressional Tax Legislation. Under the United States Constitution, all legislation concerning taxes must “originate” in the House of Representatives. The House usually must take action on the legislation before the Senate can begin its consideration.
What does the Origination Clause of the bill say?
The Origination Clause, also known as the Revenue Clause, reads as follows: All Bills for raising Revenue shall originate in the House of Representatives; but the Senate may propose or concur with Amendments as on other Bills.