Nevada Constitution articles. 13. Public Institutions

Nebraska Constitution – Article XVI: Amendments

🔹 Overview:

Article XVI of the Nebraska Constitution sets forth the procedures and requirements for amending the state constitution. It ensures that changes reflect the will of the people while maintaining a careful and deliberate process.

🔹 Key Provisions:

Proposal of Amendments (§1):

Amendments may be proposed by the Legislature.

To propose an amendment, a majority vote in the Unicameral Legislature is required.

Alternatively, amendments may be proposed by a constitutional convention, if called by the people.

Publication and Notice (§2):

Proposed amendments must be published in at least one newspaper in each county.

The publication must be done at least three months prior to the election where the amendment will be voted on.

Ratification (§3):

Amendments proposed by the Legislature or constitutional convention must be submitted to the voters at a general election.

A majority of those voting on the amendment must vote in favor for it to be adopted.

Effect of Amendments (§4):

Amendments take effect according to their own terms or on the date provided by the Legislature or convention.

Restrictions (§5):

No amendment can be made that would remove the requirement for a balanced budget or alter certain procedural safeguards without clear voter approval.

Initiative and Referendum:

Nebraska also allows for initiative and referendum processes (Article III, Section 1) enabling voters to propose constitutional amendments directly through petitions, though Article XVI governs the general amendment framework.

🔹 Summary:

Article XVI provides a structured, democratic process to amend Nebraska’s Constitution, requiring:

Legislative or convention proposal,

Adequate public notice,

And voter approval by majority in a general election.

This ensures constitutional stability while allowing for adaptation to new needs or values.

 

LEAVE A COMMENT

0 comments