Missouri Constitution Article XII - Amending the Constitution
Missouri Constitution – Article XII: Amending the Constitution outlines the methods by which the Missouri Constitution can be amended. Here's a summary of its key sections:
Section 1: Proposal of Amendments by General Assembly
Amendments may be proposed by the General Assembly (Missouri Legislature).
A majority of elected members in both the Senate and House must approve the proposed amendment.
Once approved, the proposed amendment is submitted to voters at the next general election or a special election.
If a majority of voters approve, the amendment becomes part of the Constitution.
Section 2: Proposal by Initiative Petition
Citizens may propose constitutional amendments via an initiative petition.
The petition must be signed by 8% of legal voters in at least two-thirds of the congressional districts in the state.
Upon verification, the amendment is placed on the ballot and must be approved by a majority of voters.
Section 3: Constitutional Convention
The question of whether to call a constitutional convention must be submitted to voters every 20 years, or sooner if the General Assembly calls for it.
If a majority votes in favor, a convention is held to consider changes to the Constitution.
Any proposed changes by the convention must then be ratified by voters.
Section 4: Multiple Amendments
Multiple proposed amendments may be submitted at the same election, but each must be voted on separately.
Section 5: Effective Date
An amendment becomes effective 30 days after approval by voters, unless a different date is specified in the amendment itself.
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