State Legislatures Ch. 7 Sec. 2 Pp. 298-303

Who Are State Legislators? In old days, farmers, lawyers, businessmen, etc. would meet for a few weeks each year Today, many are full-time legislators

Organization of State Legislatures Most have annual sessions lasting from 20 days to 6 months Seats are apportioned, or divided among districts, based on population Seats were mainly geographical until Reynolds v. Sims (1964), and now based on population

Making Laws Making laws is their primary, or main, job Initiative – the process by which citizens can propose laws. Referendum – the process by which a law is referred to the voters to approve or reject Recall – a process for removing elected officials from office. Like a reverse election.

Making Laws 25 states allow recall elections In 2003, California held one and elected Arnold Schwarzenegger Check and balance other branches Approve appointed officials and judges Impeach, or bring charges, against elected officials

Financing State Government States raise 50% or more through taxes Revenue – income Sales tax – charges made on purchases of goods and services Excise tax – a charge on certain goods such as alcohol, gasoline, and tobacco Income tax – a tax on the earnings of individuals and businesses

Financing State Government Bonds – certificates that people buy from the government. States pay back principal plus interest Lotteries – usually 60% goes to the winner and 40% goes to the state Federal funds – a) categorical grants – for a specific purpose b) block grants –for a general purpose (almost anything)

Questions The process for removing elected officials from office is called _______.

The general term for money collected by the government is _____. Questions The general term for money collected by the government is _____.

States may not get money by ____. Questions States may not get money by ____.