Amending the US Constitution: A Step-by-Step Guide
Proposal Stage
Congressional Initiative
The first step in amending the Constitution is a proposal by Congress. A proposed amendment requires a two-thirds majority vote in both the House of Representatives and the Senate.
Convention Initiative
Alternatively, an amendment can be proposed by a national convention called by Congress upon the request of two-thirds of the state legislatures.
Ratification Stage
Once an amendment is proposed, it must be ratified by three-fourths of the states. This can be done through:
Legislative Ratification
State legislatures vote to approve the amendment within the time limit set by Congress.
Ratifying Convention
Each state holds a convention to consider the amendment separately, with three-fourths of the states voting in favor for ratification.
Key Considerations
Proposal Threshold
The high threshold of two-thirds majority and three-fourths ratification ensures that amendments are broadly supported before becoming part of the Constitution.
Limited Scope
The Constitution only allows for amendments to change its own text, not to alter other laws or establish new policies.
Purpose
The amendment process was designed to provide a mechanism for the people to change the Constitution as society evolves and new needs arise.
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