What follows after a bill is introduced in New Jersey's legislative process?

After a bill is introduced in New Jersey's legislative process, the next step is Committee Reference and Action. This stage is critical because the bill is assigned to a committee that specializes in the bill’s subject matter. The committee reviews the bill, holds hearings, and can make amendments before it decides whether to release the bill for a vote by the full legislative body.

This step is essential for thorough examination and discussion, allowing legislators to assess the implications of the bill, gather expert testimony, and consider public opinion. If the committee approves the bill, it may then proceed to a vote by the entire house. However, if the committee does not recommend the bill, it may not advance in the legislative process.

Following this stage, if approved by the committee, the bill would then move to a house vote, and later stages involving the Governor's action and law implementation would occur, but they come after the committee phase. Thus, Committee Reference and Action is the correct process following the introduction of a bill.