Definition
A pocket veto prevents a bill from becoming law when the president takes no action for ten days, excluding Sundays, and Congress adjourns in a way that prevents return of the bill.
Political Dictionary
Pocket Veto
A pocket veto occurs when the president does not sign a bill and Congress adjourns during the review period.
Why It Matters
Unlike a regular veto, a pocket veto cannot be overridden because Congress is unavailable to receive the returned bill.
How It Works
Congress presents a bill, the president withholds a signature, and an intervening adjournment prevents return.
History
The pocket veto arises from the Constitution’s presentment clause and has produced disputes over what kind of adjournment qualifies.
Example
A president may pocket-veto legislation presented shortly before final adjournment.
Common Misconceptions
- Any unsigned bill is pocket-vetoed.
- Congress can always override a pocket veto.
- The president can use it while Congress remains able to receive the bill.
Related Terms
Related Topics
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