One of the few legislative case-study texts written by a political scientist, Lessons from the Hill demonstrates how proposed legislation becomes law. Janet M. Martin outlines the entire legislative process in both the Senate and the House of Representatives, examines the interaction between personnel in the executive and legislative branches, and explains how issues get on the agenda, as well as how support is built among members of Congress, their staffs, and constituents.

The book fully accounts for the role of interest groups in crafting legislation. Lessons from the Hill is based on an amendment to the Supplemental Appropriations Bill of 1990, which provided funds for an educational program designed to prevent school dropouts. This case study is especially relevant in its concern for domestic spending during an era of fiscal austerity. The book begins with a foreword by Senate Majority Leader George J. Mitchell.