Emergency Clause

The legislature can attach an “emergency clause” to any bill so that it takes effect immediately upon the governor’s signature. 

The clause requires a separate vote from the underlying bill, and it needs 2/3 approval to be added.

Without an emergency clause, legislation takes effect 90 days after the end of the legislative session. 

Regular session officially adjourns on May 28, which is why most laws take effect on August 28.

An emergency clause usually looks something like this: “Because of [emergency], this act is deemed necessary for the immediate preservation of the public health, welfare, peace and safety, and is hereby declared to be an emergency act within the meaning of the constitution, and this act shall be in full force and effect upon its passage and approval.”