Washington Constitution Article II - Legislative Department
Washington Constitution – Article II: Legislative Department – Summary
Article II of the Washington State Constitution establishes the structure, powers, and procedures of the Legislative Department. Below is a detailed summary of its key provisions:
1. Legislative Power
Vested in the Senate and House of Representatives, which together form the Legislature of the State of Washington.
2. Composition and Terms
Senators: Elected for four-year terms.
Representatives: Elected for two-year terms.
Each legislative district elects one senator and two representatives.
3. Qualifications
Must be a citizen of the United States and a qualified voter in the district represented.
4. Sessions
Regular legislative sessions begin annually on the second Monday in January.
Special sessions can be called by the Governor or by two-thirds of the Legislature.
5. Legislative Process
Bills must be read three times in each house before becoming law.
A majority vote in both houses is required for passage.
The Governor can veto bills, but the Legislature can override with a two-thirds vote in both houses.
6. Initiative and Referendum
Citizens have the power to propose laws (initiative) and approve or reject laws (referendum) passed by the Legislature.
These are key tools of direct democracy in Washington.
7. Ethics and Restrictions
Legislators cannot hold any other public office or receive additional compensation during their term.
Bribery, conflicts of interest, and improper influence are strictly prohibited.
8. Apportionment
Legislative districts must be redrawn after each federal census to ensure equal representation, handled by a bipartisan redistricting commission.
9. Miscellaneous Provisions
Rules for journal keeping, open meetings, and publication of laws are included.
The Legislature is prohibited from passing special laws when general laws can apply.
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