The Georgia Constitution Scrapbook Page 7

Explain the basic structure of the Georgia Constitution The Georgia Constitution is a bicameral government. This means that it has a two (bi means two) house legislature: the Senate and the House of Representatives. This is the same as our federal government. In addition we also have the three branches of government (for checks and balances). These are the same as the federal government as well. They are the EXECUTIVE, LEGISLATIVE, and JUDICIAL.

Explain the concepts of separation of powers and checks and balances. The powers of the state and federal governments are divided (or separated) to prevent one branch from having more power than the other. (Executive, Judicial, and Legislative) The “checks and balances” system is designed for each branch to “check” or control the activities of the other two. This is designed so that no branch of government will have more power than the other.

Rights and Responsibilities Life, liberty, and property Equal protection under the law Freedom of conscience (religion) Freedom of speech and press guaranteed Right to assemble and keep and bear arms Right to a trial by jury (and other legal protections) Fishing and hunting

Rights and Responsibilities Citizens should participate in government and vote. Citizens should serve on juries. Citizens should obey the laws of their community and state and country. Citizens should respect the rights of others. Citizens should pay their income taxes and other taxes honestly and on time!

Voter Qualifications To register to vote in the state of Georgia, you must be: 1.A citizen of the United States. 2.A legal resident of Georgia and of the county in which you wish to vote. 3.At least 18 years of age by election day. Also, you may not register to vote if you are currently: 1.Serving any sentence imposed by the conviction of a felony. 2.Judicially determined to be mentally incompetent.

Election Qualifications : State Senator: Must be 30 years of age and reside in the state and have been a citizen of the US for 9 years. State Representative: Must be 25 years of age and reside in the state and have been a citizen of the US for 7 years. State of Georgia Governor: Must be 30 years of age, reside in the state for 6 years, and have been a legal citizen of the US for 15 years.

Role of Political Parties The role of political parties is to join groups and people that have similar thoughts, ideas, and opinions together to influence the governmental process. They are also instrumental in educating the general public on issues that affect us. The two primary parties in Georgia ( and nationally) are the Democratic Party and the Republican Party.