CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS (ACA/SCA) - 6920

A constitutional amendment can be initiated by the Legislature if it passes both houses by a two-thirds vote. A constitutional amendment does not need the Governor's signature, but becomes part of the constitution only if the electorate approves it at the next general election. A special election can also be called by the Governor to consider a proposed constitutional amendment, if it is deemed necessary.

When the Legislature adopts a proposed constitutional amendment, it often also adopts a "companion bill"; i.e., a bill which takes effect only if the constitutional amendment is passed by the people. These companion measures generally contain detailed statutory provisions which would implement the constitutional amendment.

The constitution can also be amended through the "initiative process," in which the signatures of the requisite number of voters on a petition is sufficient to cause the Secretary of State to place the petition on the ballot. No action by the Legislature is needed in this process and the Legislature cannot prevent it from occurring.