This is a Complaint pleading for use in litigation of the title matter. Adapt this form to comply with your facts and circumstances, and with your specific state law. Not recommended for use by non-attorneys.
Amendment To Constitution Process In Massachusetts
Category:
State:
Multi-State
Control #:
US-000280
Format:
Word;
Rich Text
Instant download
Description
Free preview
Form popularity
FAQ
A constitutional amendment can be initiated by the Legislature if it passes both houses by a two-thirds vote. A constitutional amendment does not need the Governor's signature, but becomes part of the constitution only if the electorate approves it at the next general election.
Due process requires that laws be clear so as to give a person of ordinary intelligence a reasonable opportunity to know what the law proscribes, that he or she might act ingly. ”
An amendment may be proposed by a two-thirds vote of both Houses of Congress, or, if two-thirds of the States request one, by a convention called for that purpose. The amendment must then be ratified by three-fourths of the State legislatures, or three-fourths of conventions called in each State for ratification.
Massachusetts thereby invented the concept of convening a convention of the people, separate and apart from the legislature, for the sole purpose of creating a constitution.
Congress must call a convention for proposing amendments upon application of the legislatures of two-thirds of the states (i.e., 34 of 50 states). Amendments proposed by Congress or convention become valid only when ratified by the legislatures of, or conventions in, three-fourths of the states (i.e., 38 of 50 states).
Proposed amendments must receive majority approval (50% + 1) two successive joint legislative sessions to be placed on the ballot. If any such proposed amendment is approved by a simple majority of voters and by at least 30 percent of people voting in that election, the amendment is adopted.
Massachusetts thereby invented the concept of convening a convention of the people, separate and apart from the legislature, for the sole purpose of creating a constitution.
Due process requires that laws be clear so as to give a person of ordinary intelligence a reasonable opportunity to know what the law proscribes, that he or she might act ingly. ”
There are three ways in which the Constitution can be amended: Amendment by simple majority of the Parliament. Amendment by special majority of the Parliament. Amendment by special majority of the Parliament and the ratification of at least half of the state legislatures.