messaging bill

Definition

Legislation introduced with no expectation of passage, designed purely to stake out political positions and create campaign talking points. Theater masquerading as governance, where the press release matters more than the policy.

Example Usage

Everyone knew the messaging bill banning something already illegal would die in committee, but it gave vulnerable members a chance to look tough on crime.

Origin

Modern congressional terminology from the era of permanent campaigning

Fun Fact

Messaging bills have become so common that legislative productivity is now measured in bills passed versus bills introduced, with the gap widening annually

Source: Legislative strategy and congressional operations terminology

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