1. The New Texas Constitution

2. 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

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

4. 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)

5. 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)

6. 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)

7. Texas Government Responsibilities

8. 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

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

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

11. 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

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