State & Local Government

Front

What document does each state have to organize its government?

Back

Each of the 50 states has its own constitution.

Front

What three branches are included in all state constitutions?

Back

Executive, legislative, and judicial branches.

Front

What part of the state government does the constitution outline besides the three branches?

Back

The state’s bureaucracy (unelected people who work on government business).

Front

How do state constitutions protect citizens?

Back

By protecting individual rights, which may or may not overlap with the Bill of Rights.

Front

How are most state constitutional amendments approved?

Back

By ratification from the eligible voters of the state.

Front

Why are state constitutions amended more often than the U.S. Constitution?

Back

It is generally easier to amend a state constitution.

Front

Why are state constitutions usually longer and more detailed than the federal Constitution?

Back

They can focus on issues specific to their state.

Front

What financial rule do most state constitutions enforce regarding spending?

Back

The amount spent must equal the amount collected in taxes (balanced budget).

Front

Who leads the executive branch of a state government?

Back

The governor.

Front

Why have governors been given more power in recent decades?

Back

Because the state bureaucracy has grown.