FILED—The stage in a bill’s legislative progress when it is given a bill number and introduced into the legislative process. Members of the house of representatives file bills with the chief clerk of the house. Senators file bills with the secretary of the senate.

FIRST READING—See READING.

FISCAL NOTE—An estimate, prepared by the Legislative Budget Board, of the probable costs that will be incurred as an effect of a bill or joint resolution.

FISCAL YEAR—A 12-month period at the end of which accounts are reconciled. The fiscal year for state agencies in Texas begins on September 1 of each year and ends on August 31 of the following year.

FLOOR—A traditional term for the meeting chamber of either house.

FLOOR ACTION—Action taken by either house on a bill reported by a committee. Subject to rules adopted by the respective house, its members may propose amendments, enter debate, seek to promote or prevent a bill’s passage, and vote on its final passage in that house.

FORMAL MEETING—A meeting of a house committee or subcommittee during which official action may be taken on any measure or matter before the committee or subcommittee.