Common rules The path from proposal to decision in the EU is complicated, and there are a number of different decision-making procedures depending on the issue at stake. Nevertheless, the basic pattern of decision-making is the same for nearly all issues. In simple terms, the decision-making process starts in the Commission when it submits a proposal for new legislation. The proposal is then submitted to the Council of Ministers and the European Parliament for consideration. The final decision is made either by the Council and the European Parliament together, or by the Council alone, depending on the type of decision-making procedure involved.
Secondary legislation is made up of different acts of law clarifying the treaties.
A regulation applies to all member states, companies, authorities and citizens. Regulations apply as they are written, i.e., they are not transposed into other laws or provisions. They apply immediately upon coming into force. A directive may apply to any number of member states. However, directives only set out the result to be achieved.