Ordinances are sponsored by committees related to the topic in the ordinance or can be sponsored by any individual alderperson. Introduced ordinances are referred to the appropriate committee (even if the committee sponsored the ordinance) for discussion and consideration at the discretion of the committee chair. Generally, approved ordinances are effective upon publication in the official newspaper of the City of West Allis. The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel (West Allis NOW section) is the official newspaper for the City of West Allis through May 31, 2013. Otherwise, the ordinance itself may specify when it becomes effective. In this case, the effective date could be immediate (assuming Mayor does not veto) or set for a date in the future.