Table of Contents
Amendments are changes made to the Constitution to update or improve it. The process of proposing and ratifying amendments involves several steps that ensure public participation and legal oversight. This article provides a clear overview of how amendments are proposed and ratified in a citizen-friendly manner.
Proposal of Amendments
Amendments can be proposed in two ways. The most common method is through Congress, where a two-thirds majority in both the House of Representatives and the Senate is required. Alternatively, a constitutional convention can be called if two-thirds of state legislatures request it. This method has never been used to propose an amendment.
Ratification Process
Once an amendment is proposed, it must be ratified by the states. This is done through either state legislatures or state conventions, depending on the method specified by Congress. Three-fourths of the states must approve the amendment for it to become part of the Constitution.
Key Points for Citizens
- Amendments start with Congress or a state convention.
- Approval requires a two-thirds vote in Congress or a convention.
- Ratification needs approval from three-fourths of the states.
- This process ensures broad consensus before changes are made.