1. State Legislatures
Ch. 7
Sec. 2 Pp

2. 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

3. 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

4. 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.

5. 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

6. 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

7. 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)

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

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

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