Thousands of bills are introduced each year in Congress and state legislatures. Knowing how to track the ones that matter to you is essential for effective advocacy. Here are the best free tools and strategies.
Congress.gov is the official website of the Library of Congress. It provides the most authoritative and complete information on federal legislation.
GovTrack makes Congressional data more accessible with visualizations, prognosis scores (likelihood a bill will pass), and email tracking alerts.
ProPublica Represent tracks votes, statements, and bill sponsorship with an emphasis on accountability journalism.
Open States is the best free resource for tracking state legislation across all 50 states. Search bills by keyword, state, or topic. View bill text, sponsor information, and committee referrals.
Every state legislature has an official website with bill search, committee schedules, and session calendars. Visit your state's page on My Democracy for direct links.
Many states have online systems where you can submit testimony, register your position on bills, and request to testify at hearings. Nevada's NELIS system and Oregon's OLIS are examples. Check your state's page for details.
A bill passes through several stages. Knowing where a bill is tells you when and how to act:
Introduction
A bill is filed by a sponsor. This is a good time to contact your rep to co-sponsor if you support it, or to express early opposition.
Committee
Most bills die in committee. If you care about a bill, contacting committee members is critical at this stage. Public hearings may be held.
Floor Vote
The bill reaches the full chamber for debate and vote. This is the highest-impact moment for constituent contact. Call before the vote.
Conference / Reconciliation
If the House and Senate pass different versions, a conference committee reconciles them. Contact can still influence the final language.
Presidential Action
The President can sign or veto. Contact the White House at whitehouse.gov/contact.
Contact your officials and tell them your position.
Write to Your Officials