The New Texas Constitution

Texas Constitution(1) After the Civil War, Texas and other Confederate States had to re-write new state constitutions reflecting that of the U.S. Constitution Texas Constitution must reflect popular sovereignty

Popular Sovereignty(2) Will of the people. (What people want)

Texas Constitution (Separation of Powers)(3) Texas government divided into three separate branches: Executive Branch – EXECUTE THE LAW (Carries out the Laws) Legislative Branch – MAKES THE LAW 3. Judicial Branch – JUDGES THE LAW (Makes sure laws don’t violate citizens rights)

Texas Constitution (Freedom of Religion)(4) No one can make you worship at any place or institution against your will. (You are free to worship as you please)

Texas Constitution (Judicial Power)(5) The Judicial Branch is the only branch of government that can declare laws unconstitutional. (U.S. and Texas Supreme Courts)

Texas Government Responsibilities

Texas Government Responsibilities(6) City Governments are in charge of providing the following services: EMS Services – (Ambulance) Police and Fire Protection Build and maintain sewer lines Drinking Water & Water treatment

Texas Government (Funding)(7) Property and Sales taxes help fund local governments in Texas

Texas Government (Education)(8) The State Board of Education provides standards and sets policies for education in Texas.

Rights of Crime Victims (1) Right of notification to court proceedings Right to be present at all public court proceedings related to the offense Right to confer with a representative of the prosecutor’s office Right to restitution Right to information about the conviction, sentence, imprisonment, and release of the accused

Lawrence Sullivan “Sul” Ross (2) General in the Confederate Army 19th Governor of Texas President of Texas A&M University