13.2 - State and Local Governments Lesson 2 State Legislatures

State and Local Governments Lesson 2 State Legislatures Learning Objectives Describe State legislatures. Explain the election, terms, and compensation of legislators. Examine the powers and organization of State legislatures. Describe how voters may write and pass laws through direct legislation.

State and Local Governments Lesson 2 State Legislatures Key Terms police power constituent power referendum

The Legislature In every State, the legislature, whatever it is called, is the lawmaking branch of State government. So, its basic function goes to the very heart of democratic government: It is charged with translating the public will into the public policy of the State.

The Legislature State Legislature Structure State Legislature Size

The Legislature The Maryland State House in Annapolis, the only State capitol that has also served as the nation’s Capitol, is the oldest such building still in use.

State Legislators In 2013, there were 7,383 State legislators—5,411 representatives and 1,972 senators—among the 50 States. Nearly all of them are Republicans or Democrats; fewer than 30 belong to a minor party or are independents.

State Legislators State Legislator Qualifications Election of Legislators Legislative Districts Legislator Terms Legislator Compensation Legislative Sessions

State Legislators State legislators, such as California's Nancy Skinner, preside over the annual budget and make suggestions regarding expenditures. Ms. Skinner chairs the Assembly Budget Committee in her State.

State Legislators A San Antonio federal court issued new election maps following months of negotiations, creating four new congressional seats. Analyze Maps What is one effect of redrawing congressional districts?

State Legislators Supreme Court decisions have affected the way congressional districts are drawn, at both the national and the State level. Analyze Information What trend can you see in the decisions shown?

Powers of the Legislature No State’s constitution lists all of the powers vested in the legislature—nor could it. In each State, the legislature has all of those powers that (1) the State constitution does not grant exclusively to the executive or judicial branches or to local governments, and (2) neither the State constitution nor the United States Constitution denies to it. In effect, most of the powers held by a State are vested in its legislature.

Powers of the Legislature Legislative Powers Nonlegislative Powers

Powers of the Legislature Senate president-elect Morgan Carroll (center) and other leaders of the Colorado legislature listen during a news conference held to discuss support for a school safety tip line in the State.

Organization of the Legislature Both the organization and procedures of State legislatures are similar to those found in Congress. Much of their work centers around presiding officers and a committee system.

Organization of the Legislature Presiding Officers Legislative Committee System Sources of Bills

Organization of the Legislature Vermont Lieutenant Governor Phil Scott assumes many responsibilities, including the promotion of community initiatives like Wheels for Warmth, which helps people recycle tires.

Direct Legislation In several States, voters themselves can take a direct part in the lawmaking process. The main vehicles for that participation are the initiative and the referendum.

Direct Legislation Initiative Process Referendum Process

Direct Legislation Initiatives and referendums give voters an opportunity to be actively involved in the legislative process. Here, citizens hold a rally to advocate the funding of mental health services.

Direct Legislation Ballot initiatives and referendums take a variety of forms in those States that allow their use. Analyze Maps What pattern can you see nationwide?

Quiz: The Legislature The ideal legislature size results in A. efficient and thorough consideration of issues. B. streamlined passage of proposed bills. C. representation of all citizens' views and interests. D. equal opportunity for those interested in serving.

Quiz: The Legislature The ideal legislature size results in A. efficient and thorough consideration of issues. B. streamlined passage of proposed bills. C. representation of all citizens' views and interests. D. equal opportunity for those interested in serving.

Quiz: State Legislators If legislatures were not reapportioned using accurate census data, A. not every citizen would be represented. B. districts would be made equal using other methods. C. the number of legislators would increase. D. new districts would be added.

Quiz: State Legislators If legislatures were not reapportioned using accurate census data, A. not every citizen would be represented. B. districts would be made equal using other methods. C. the number of legislators would increase. D. new districts would be added.

Quiz: Powers of the Legislature Which of the following would be an example of the State legislature’s police power? A. rejecting the governor’s appointment of an executive officer B. establishing a toll on a State highway C. levying a tax on the import and sale of products from other countries D. passing a law that requires everyone in a vehicle to wear a seatbelt

Quiz: Powers of the Legislature Which of the following would be an example of the State legislature’s police power? A. rejecting the governor’s appointment of an executive officer B. establishing a toll on a State highway C. levying a tax on the import and sale of products from other countries D. passing a law that requires everyone in a vehicle to wear a seatbelt

Quiz: Organization of the Legislature The presiding officers are powerful political figures because of their responsibility for which of the following? A. initiating all bills that are referred to committee B. appointing chairpersons and members of committees C. controlling most debate on new or proposed bills D. determining the rules of the chamber proceedings

Quiz: Organization of the Legislature The presiding officers are powerful political figures because of their responsibility for which of the following? A. initiating all bills that are referred to committee B. appointing chairpersons and members of committees C. controlling most debate on new or proposed bills D. determining the rules of the chamber proceedings

Quiz: Direct Legislation A direct initiative can be used to propose constitutional amendments and/or A. referendums. B. statutes. C. redistricting plans. D. candidates for office.

Quiz: Direct Legislation A direct initiative can be used to propose constitutional amendments and/or A. referendums. B. statutes. C. redistricting plans. D. candidates for office.