Puerto Rico Constitution Article III - The Legislature
Here is a summary and breakdown of Article III – The Legislature of the Constitution of Puerto Rico:
Puerto Rico Constitution – Article III: The Legislature
Article III establishes the Legislative Branch of the Government of Puerto Rico, which is responsible for making laws. It defines the structure, powers, and functions of the legislature.
Key Provisions:
1. Structure of the Legislature
Puerto Rico has a bicameral legislature, called the Legislative Assembly, consisting of:
The Senate (Upper House)
The House of Representatives (Lower House)
2. Membership
The number of Senators and Representatives is determined by law, but:
There must be at least 1 senator and 2 representatives per senatorial district.
The Constitution sets a minimum of 27 Representatives and 15 Senators.
3. Election and Qualifications
Members are elected every four years by direct vote in a general election.
Qualifications include:
Age (25 for Senators, 21 for Representatives),
Citizenship,
Residency in Puerto Rico for at least 2 years,
Residency in the district for at least 1 year.
4. Powers and Duties
The Legislative Assembly enacts laws, approves the budget, confirms executive appointments, and may conduct investigations.
Each house determines its rules, chooses its officers, and can punish or expel members.
5. Sessions
Regular sessions begin in January and continue for most of the year.
The Governor can call extraordinary sessions under specific conditions.
6. Legislative Process
Bills must pass both chambers and be signed by the Governor to become law.
If vetoed, the legislature may override the veto with a two-thirds vote in both chambers.
7. Ethics and Conflicts
Members must avoid conflicts of interest.
They cannot hold other public office or receive dual compensation from public funds.
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