Second reading is a stage in the legislative process where Parliament or a legislature debates a bill's general principles and purpose. At second reading, members discuss whether they support the bill's overall concept without focusing on specific wording. Following second reading debate, a vote determines whether the bill proceeds to committee study, where detailed clause-by-clause review occurs. Second reading is the main opportunity for broad debate about a bill's merits. Bills passing second reading proceed to committee; those defeated are dropped. This stage allows members to express support or opposition to the legislation's fundamental approach before detailed examination.