What is the role of the second reading in the legislative process?

The second reading plays a crucial role in the legislative process as it primarily serves as a stage for debating the general principles of a bill. This phase gives members of the legislature the opportunity to discuss the broad objectives and implications of the proposed legislation. Unlike more detailed later stages, the second reading is focused on whether the bill's main ideas are sound and whether the legislature as a whole supports its general intentions.

During this stage, members can express their views on the fundamental aspects of the bill, reflecting on its potential impact on society, the economy, or governance. The outcome of the second reading usually determines whether the bill will proceed to further examination and amendments. If the bill passes this stage, it indicates that there is enough support for its core principles to warrant a more in-depth analysis in subsequent stages of the legislative process.