What are state ratifying conventions?

Author: Leandro Alegsa

Q: What are state ratifying conventions?


A: State ratifying conventions are one of the two ways established by Article Five of the United States Constitution for ratifying proposed constitutional amendments.

Q: When was the only time state ratifying conventions were used to ratify a constitutional amendment?


A: The only time state ratifying conventions were used to ratify a constitutional amendment was in 1933 to ratify the 21st Amendment.

Q: How have all other proposed constitutional amendments been ratified?


A: All other proposed constitutional amendments have been offered to the state legislatures for ratification.

Q: Can state ratifying conventions be used to propose a constitutional amendment?


A: Yes, the Constitution provides that state ratifying conventions may also be used to propose a constitutional amendment.

Q: Have any of the 27 amendments to the Constitution been proposed by state conventions?


A: No, to date, none of the 27 amendments to the Constitution have been proposed by state conventions.

Q: How can a state ratifying convention be called?


A: A state ratifying convention may be called by a two-thirds vote by a state legislature.

Q: How does Article Five of the United States Constitution outline the process for ratifying proposed constitutional amendments?


A: Article Five of the United States Constitution outlines two ways for ratifying proposed constitutional amendments, one through state ratifying conventions and the other through state legislatures.


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