The States have been an independent legislature making laws for the Island and acting as a vehicle for the expressions of the opinions and will of the Island's community since at least the 13th century.
The States of Deliberation operate according to the Rules of Procedure, which are equivalent to Standing Orders in other parliaments.
The legislative process usually begins with a Proposition and a Policy Letter from the relevant Committee of the States, setting out a legislative proposal.
There are eight Principal Committees of the States of Deliberation, two Parliamentary Committees, three Authorities, one Commission and one Board. The details of which can be found here (link to relevant part of the site).
The States of Deliberation comprises a Presiding Officer (or Speaker), this position is held by the Bailiff by virtue of his office or in his absence the Deputy Bailiff, or in the absence of the Deputy Bailiff an Acting Presiding Officer, nominated from among the elected members by the Bailiff.
This glossary provides definitions for terms used in Guernsey's parliamentary process including during the meetings, and within the documentation, of The States of Deliberation.