California Constitution Article V - Executive [Sections 1 - 14]
California Constitution – Article V: Executive
[Sections 1 – 14]
Overview:
Article V of the California Constitution outlines the structure, powers, and duties of the executive branch of the state government. It primarily focuses on the Governor but also includes provisions for other key executive officers.
🔹 Section-by-Section Summary:
§ 1. Executive Power; Governor
The executive power of the State is vested in the Governor.
The Governor is the chief executive officer and is responsible for ensuring the faithful execution of state laws.
§ 2. Election and Term
The Governor is elected every four years.
Terms begin on the first Monday after January 1 following the election.
No Governor may serve more than two terms.
§ 3. Qualifications
A candidate for Governor must be:
A U.S. citizen
A California resident and registered voter for at least 5 years
§ 4. Governor’s Salary
The salary is determined by the California Citizens Compensation Commission.
The Legislature cannot increase or reduce it directly.
§ 5. Duties and Powers
The Governor may:
Sign or veto legislation
Call special sessions of the Legislature
Appoint officials, judges, and fill vacancies as allowed by law
Deliver the State of the State address
§ 6. Commander in Chief
The Governor is Commander in Chief of the state militia (e.g., National Guard) unless under federal control.
§ 7. Reprieves, Pardons, Commutations
The Governor may grant clemency (reprieves, pardons, and commutations) except in cases of impeachment.
Must provide written report to the Legislature on each clemency action.
§ 8. Report to Legislature
The Governor must report to the Legislature at the start of each session on the condition of the state.
§ 9. Budget
The Governor must submit an annual budget to the Legislature by January 10.
Includes proposed expenditures and estimated revenues.
§ 10. Legislative Messages
The Governor may send messages to the Legislature to recommend legislation.
§ 11. Lieutenant Governor
Elected on a separate ballot from the Governor.
Acts as Governor when the Governor is out of state or incapacitated.
§ 12. Succession
If the Governor’s office becomes vacant, the Lieutenant Governor becomes Governor.
A line of succession is provided in law if both offices are vacant.
§ 13. Executive Officers
Other executive officers (e.g., Attorney General, Secretary of State, Treasurer) are elected and their powers are defined by law.
§ 14. Removal from Office
The Governor and other state executive officers may be removed by impeachment or recall.
✅ Purpose of Article V:
To provide a clear framework for executive leadership, ensuring:
Accountability and checks and balances
Orderly succession
Transparency in budgeting and governance
Protection against abuse of power
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