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Tennessee’s Constitution. How a Bill becomes a law.
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Tennessee’s Constitution How a Bill becomes a law
We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America. “That all power is inherent in the people, and all free governments are founded on their authority, and instituted for their peace, safety, and happiness; for the advancement of those ends they have at all times, an unalienable and indefeasible right to alter, reform, or abolish the government in such manner as they think proper.” The Constitution TN vs US
Tennessee Constitution • Adopted in 1870 • Amendments or changes to the Constitution can be made. • Law makers or legislators can propose the amendment if a majority vote for it. • Legislator has to get 2/3 majority • A majority of people voting for governor must approve the amendment
Another way to amend the Constitution… • Through Constitutional Convention • If a majority of voters approve, a majority of the legislation can call for a convention • Then must be approved by the majority of voters in statewide election.
There was a time when governors only served two-year terms, but that part of the Tennessee Constitution was changed to allow for four-year terms. And just a few years ago the constitution was changed to allow a lottery Some examples of Amendments
Crazy things in the TN Constitution • Article IX, Section 3, prohibits people who have dueled from holding office. • Take Article II, Section 22. “The doors of each House and of committees of the whole shall be kept open, unless when the business shall be such as ought to be kept secret.” Every year state legislators argue with reporters about whether this clause allows the legislature to have secret committee meetings during the closing days of the General Assembly.
I’m Just A Bill • http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ouZTIqcvb30