What is Line-item Veto? A Comprehensive Overview of Its Legal Meaning

Definition & Meaning

The line-item veto is a special power that allows an executive authority, such as a governor or president, to reject specific parts of a bill while approving the rest. This authority is often used in budget appropriations, enabling the executive to cancel individual spending items without vetoing the entire legislative package. The line-item veto is sometimes referred to as a partial veto and is subject to legislative override, similar to traditional vetoes.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

For instance, a governor may use the line-item veto to eliminate funding for a specific project within a larger budget bill, allowing the rest of the budget to pass without issue. (Hypothetical example)

State-by-state differences

State Line-Item Veto Authority
California Yes, the governor can exercise line-item veto on budget bills.
Texas No, Texas does not allow line-item vetoes.
New York Yes, the governor can veto specific items in appropriations bills.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
Veto The power to reject an entire bill. Line-item veto applies to specific provisions, not the whole bill.
Partial Veto Another term for line-item veto. Same meaning as line-item veto.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are involved in a situation where a line-item veto may affect your budget or funding, consider consulting with a legal professional to understand your rights and options. You can also explore US Legal Forms for templates that may assist you in managing the implications of a line-item veto.

Quick facts

  • Typical use: Budget appropriations
  • Authority: Typically held by state governors
  • Legislative override: Possible

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

A line-item veto is the authority to reject specific provisions of a bill, usually related to budget appropriations.