Definitions for "Prime Sponsor"
The legislator whose name appears first among the sponsors of a bill or resolution.  The prime sponsor has the right to select co-sponsors and may exercise a number of other prerogatives in regard to the proposed legislation.
Legislator whose signature first appears on the bill.
The first legislator to sign a bill for introduction. RULES: The rules of each House determine how it shall go about its daily conduct of business. Rules generally originate in the standing Committee on Rules and Calendar, which also determines the priority of legislative measures to be considered.