Arkansas Constitution Article 5 - Legislative Department
Arkansas Constitution – Article 5: Legislative Department
Overview:
Article 5 of the Arkansas Constitution establishes and governs the Legislative Department of the state government. It defines the structure, powers, duties, and limitations of the Arkansas General Assembly, which includes the House of Representatives and the Senate.
Key Provisions in Article 5:
Here is a summary of the most important sections and what they cover:
1. Composition and Elections
House of Representatives and Senate are the two chambers of the General Assembly.
Members are elected by the people.
Terms and qualifications are defined:
Representatives: 2-year terms
Senators: Staggered 4-year terms
2. Apportionment
Legislative districts must be apportioned according to population.
Ensures equal representation across the state.
3. Powers and Duties
The General Assembly has full legislative power over all state matters not restricted by the Constitution or federal law.
It can pass laws, levy taxes, approve budgets, and propose constitutional amendments.
4. Sessions
Regular sessions begin in odd-numbered years and last 60 days unless extended.
Fiscal sessions (for budget-related matters) occur in even-numbered years.
5. Legislative Procedure
Details how bills become law, including:
Introduction
Committee review
Floor debate and vote
Governor’s approval or veto
6. Limitations
Includes restrictions on local or special laws, such as:
Laws that affect only certain cities or individuals without general applicability.
Prohibits bribery, corruption, and conflicts of interest.
7. Compensation
Sets rules for legislator pay and expense reimbursement.
Compensation is regulated to prevent abuse.
8. Impeachment Power
The House of Representatives may impeach state officers.
The Senate conducts impeachment trials.
9. Ethics and Disqualification
Addresses disqualification from office due to crimes, corruption, or other misconduct.
Purpose of Article 5:
To define the structure and authority of Arkansas's legislative branch, ensure checks and balances, and protect democratic governance through fair representation, transparency, and legal accountability.
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