Week 3 - The Texas Constitution

Question 1

What is the role of a state constitution?

Answer 1

To provide a legal framework for how the state government operates, outline the structure of the state government, define the roles and responsibilities of government officials, and include a bill of rights to protect citizens’ liberties.

Question 2

What are the similarities between the U.S. Constitution and the Texas Constitution?

Answer 2

Both establish a framework for government, include a bill of rights to protect citizens’ freedoms, and can be amended.

Question 3

What are the differences between the U.S. Constitution and the Texas Constitution?

Answer 3

The Texas Constitution is much longer and more detailed, has been amended more frequently, and contains specific policies and procedures, while the U.S. Constitution is more general.

Question 4

What is the definition of “separation of powers”? Provide an example.

Answer 4

Separation of powers divides the government into three branches (executive, legislative, and judicial), each with its own distinct powers and responsibilities.

Example: The Texas Legislature makes laws, the Governor enforces them, and the Texas courts interpret them.

Question 5

What is the definition of “checks and balances”? Provide an example.

Answer 5

Checks and balances ensure that no one branch of government becomes too powerful by giving each branch the authority to limit the powers of the other branches.

Example: The Governor of Texas can veto legislation passed by the Texas Legislature, but the Legislature can override the veto with a two-thirds majority vote.

Question 6

What are the major features of the 1876 Texas constitution?

Answer 6

A strict separation of powers among the branches of government, a detailed and specific document with numerous amendments, and limited government power with a focus on local control and individual rights.

Question 7

How many articles make up the 1876 Texas Constitution?

Answer 7

17 articles.

Question 8

Which articles establishes and defines the four (4) levels of government in Texas
government?

Answer 8

• Article III: The Legislative Department
• Article IV: The Executive Department
• Article V: The Judicial Department
• Article IX: Counties

Question 9

What are the major constitutional officers in Texas?

Answer 9

The Governor, the Lieutenant Governor, the Attorney General, the Comptroller of Public Accounts, the Commissioner of the General Land Office, and the Commissioner of Agriculture.

Question 10

Who are the major office holders in the Texas Executive branch? How are they
selected?

Answer 10

• The Governor: Elected by voters
• The Lieutenant Governor: Elected by voters
• The Attorney General: Elected by voters
• The Comptroller of Public Accounts: Elected by voters
• The Commissioner of the General Land Office: Elected by voters
• The Commissioner of Agriculture: Elected by voters

Question 11

How can the Texas constitution be amended? Which article describes this
process?

Answer 11

Through a proposal by the Legislature requiring a two-thirds majority vote in both the House and Senate, followed by approval by a majority of Texas voters in a general election. This process is described in Article 17.