Georgia Constitution Art. V Executive Branch

Georgia Constitution – Article V: Executive Branch

🔹 Overview:

Article V of the Georgia Constitution defines the structure, powers, duties, and election of the executive branch of Georgia’s state government, focusing primarily on the Governor and other key executive officers.

📋 Key Sections and Highlights:

Section I – Executive Power

The executive power of the state is vested in the Governor.

The Governor is the chief executive officer, responsible for enforcing state laws.

Section II – Governor’s Election and Term

The Governor is elected by the qualified voters of the state.

Term length is four years.

Governors are limited to serving two consecutive terms, but may serve non-consecutive terms.

Section III – Qualifications

To be Governor, a person must:

Be at least 30 years old

Have been a citizen of the U.S. for at least 15 years

Have been a resident of Georgia for at least 6 years

Section IV – Governor’s Powers and Duties

Law enforcement: Ensure laws are faithfully executed.

Commander in Chief: Head of the state’s militia (except when called into federal service).

Appointment Powers: Appoint officials as provided by law.

Legislative Role: May call the General Assembly into special session.

Veto Power: Can veto bills, with the legislature able to override by two-thirds vote.

Message Power: May recommend legislation and give an annual State of the State address.

Section V – Other Executive Officers

Other key executive officials include the Lieutenant Governor, Secretary of State, Attorney General, Commissioner of Agriculture, and others.

These officers are either elected or appointed according to law.

The Lieutenant Governor acts as Governor when the Governor is unable to serve.

Section VI – Succession and Vacancies

The Lieutenant Governor succeeds to the Governor’s office in case of vacancy.

Procedures for filling other vacancies in executive offices are outlined.

Section VII – Impeachment and Removal

The Governor and other executive officers can be impeached by the legislature.

Grounds include misconduct, inability, or neglect of duty.

Section VIII – Compensation

The salary of the Governor and other executive officers is fixed by law and cannot be diminished during their term.

Purpose of Article V:

To provide a clear constitutional framework for the executive leadership of Georgia, ensuring:

Effective administration of state government

Checks and balances between branches

Clear lines of succession and accountability

 

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