In July 2004, the NZSL Bill went to Parliament for its first reading. Many members of the deaf community attended, as it was a landmark in the deaf history of New Zealand.

The Bill was unanimously agreed to by all parties. The Justice and Electoral Select Committee then considered 195 submissions. Six submissions were received in NZSL recorded on video. The Select Committee recommends that the Bill include a new clause to ensure it is reviewed after three years.

To have the NZSL Bill pass successfully, few steps are required. The government needs to reinstate the Bill, following the election. Members of Parliament consider the Select Committee's recommendations, and the Bill then has a second and third reading. At the second reading stage, there will be debate on the overall principles and clauses of the Bill, with members voting on the Bill clause by clause.

The third reading provides a forum for the final debate on the Bill. Royal Assent from the Governor-General would then complete the process, possibly by early 2006.

Source: Office for Disability Issues, News, No. 4, 2005