second reading

American  

noun

1. the stage in the consideration of a legislative bill that provides an opportunity for debate and amendment.

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second reading British  

noun

1. the second presentation of a bill in a legislative assembly, as to approve its general principles (in Britain), or to discuss a committee's report on it (in the US)

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Etymology

Origin of second reading

First recorded in 1640–50

Example Sentences

The plans are being introduced in the NHS Modernisation Bill which is going through parliament and having its second reading on Monday 1 June.

From BBC • May 30, 2026

A second reading will take place at some stage to be determined, which will decide if the bill can move forward in the legislative process or be rejected again.

From BBC • Apr. 28, 2026

The unicameral National Assembly unanimously backed the mining law on its second reading, assembly chief Jorge Rodriguez announced.

From Barron's • Apr. 9, 2026

The bill passed its second reading in the Commons last year and will also have to be passed by the House of Lords before it can become law.

From BBC • Jan. 10, 2026

It passed the House of Commons, but was thrown out by the House of Lords on the second reading on the 8th of September 1893.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 12, Slice 1 "Gichtel, Johann" to "Glory" by Various