Chapter 24 Section 2

Legislature is the lawmaking branch of State gov.

The heart of the democratic gov. Legislature is responsible for translating

the public will into the State’s public policy.

No ideal size for a legislature Should not be too large as to hamper the

orderly conduct of the people’s business. Should not be so small that the many views

and interests within the State cannot be represented adequately.

Qualifications Every state’s constitution sets out formal

requirements of age, citizenship, and residence Informal qualifications are harder to meet

Vote-getting ability Occupation Name recognition Party identification Race Religion National origin

Election Are chosen by popular vote Nominated at party conventions In most states elections are held in Nov on even

numbered years Terms

Serve either 2 or 4 year terms Rate of turnover is very high

Compensation Capable men & women don’t run b/c of the lack of

compensation Usually less than 30,000 per year

Legislative Sessions 43 state legislatures hold annual sessions Governors can call special sessions to allow

the lawmaking body to take up urgent matters between scheduled meetings.

Legislative Powers Can enact any law that does not conflict w/ any

federal law or any provision in the State’s constitution.

Processes the police power – the power to protect and promote the public health, public safety, public morals, & the general welfare.

Nonlegislative Powers Executive powers – the approval of the governor’s

appointment of certain officials Judicial powers – are capped by the power of

impeachment Constituent powers – refers to constitution making

and constitutional amendment process

State legislatures are organized in much the same manner as Congress.

They have presiding officers and a committee system.

Bills Direct Legislation