The Structure and Function of Texas Government We The People... The Structure and Function of Texas Government

Background The Texas government is very strong today, even though it has gone through several changes and constitutions. Constitution of 1836 Constitution of 1845 Constitution of 1876

The founding fathers of Texas had wonderful insight that helped form a government of strength stability and

These Texans looked to a shining example of democracy as the basis for our state constitution and government. The Constitution of the United States

So the structure (what our government looks like) and function (what our government does) is a reflection of the United States government.

Part 1: The Structure of Texas Government Structure is the framework of our government.

The U.S. government is divided into three branches, each with different duties. The structure of Texas government is the same. Let’s take a look.

Three Branches of Government Executive Judicial Legislative

The Executive Branch Structure Function the governor, lieutenant-governor, and attorney-general appointees Function see that laws are carried out

The Legislative Branch Structure “bicameral”- made of two houses like the U.S. Congress Texas Senate Texas House of Representatives Function make laws

The Judicial Branch Structure Function Texas Supreme Court district courts county and local courts Function decide if laws are fair try civil and criminal cases

Part 2: Function of Texas Government Function is how the government works, or what it does for the people.

The U.S. Constitution is based on seven principles, or goals. Therefore, the Texas Constitution is based on the same seven principles.

1. Popular Sovereignty The principle of popular sovereignty is expressed in the first three words of the Constitution...

“Popular” means people. “Sovereignty” comes from “sovereign” which means ruler. Popular sovereignty means that the people rule.

Popular sovereignty is the belief that the people hold the final authority in government.

How is popular sovereignty achieved?

Citizens vote on individuals to represent them in the various branches of government. Citizens vote on proposed laws.

2. Limited Power of Government Limited government means that we, as in “we the people”, give the government power… but not too much power. POWER

How do we limit the government’s power? We outline the government’s power in a constitution. Citizens are guaranteed fundamental rights and freedoms in the Bill of Rights.

3. Federalism Federalism is the sharing of powers between the state and national government. Some powers are state powers, some national, and some are shared. National State

What are some examples of federalism? State Powers maintain schools marriage and divorce laws conduct elections regulate trade within the state National Powers maintain armed forces coin money declare war establish foreign policy

Shared powers raise taxes charter banks provide for the public welfare administer criminal justice

4. Separation of Powers Separating powers guards against putting too much power in the hands of a few people.

Legislative- makes laws Executive- sees that laws are carried out Judicial- decides if laws are fair We limit power by creating the three branches of government, each with separate duties.

There is balance of power 5. Checks and Balances Each branch of government can check, or control, the power of the other two branches. There is balance of power

Example of checks and balances Congress has the power to pass laws... but the president can veto laws. CANCEL However, Congress can check the president’s power by overriding, or canceling, the veto.

6. Republicanism A philosophy of limited government in which elected representatives serve at the will of the people. Congress

7. Individual rights The basic liberties and rights that are guaranteed in the first 10 amendments to the Constitution, the Bill of Rights. Examples: Freedom of Religion Freedom of the Press

The three branches are interdependent.

Let’s review the seven principles of Texas government: 1. Popular sovereignty 2. Limited government POWER 3. Federalism National State 4. Separation of power 5. Checks and balances

Let’s review the seven principles of Texas government: 6. Republicanism Congress 7. Individual rights

Texans have created a strong and responsible republic that is responsive to the citizens of Texas.

Credits Photo of Governor Rick Perry courtesy of the Texas State Archives.