the second presentation of a bill in a legislature; to approve its general principles (Britain) or to discuss a committee's report and take a vote (US)
In the UK and various other countries, the second presentation of a bill (proposed legislation) to a parliament or legislature, or chamber thereof, subsequent to the initial announcement of the bill at first reading. It is the first opportunity for debate on the main principles of the bill, and in the UK precedes the committee stage, where the bill is scrutinised in more detail.