Foundations of Georgia's Government AKS 43

Study Notes

Establishes the relationship between the government and its citizens, serving as a blueprint.
Georgia has operated under 10 different constitutions since 1777.
The current constitution was ratified in 1983, after being rewritten starting in 1977.

Follows a similar structure to the U.S. Constitution, beginning with a preamble.
Comprises 11 articles addressing various branches and duties of government.

Preamble: Introduces the purpose of the constitution, emphasizing justice, peace, and liberty under the guidance of God.
Bill of Rights (Article I): Lists individual rights, with 40 paragraphs detailing citizen rights and limits on government power.
Amendments: Changes to the Constitution are detailed, requiring voter approval after legislative proposal or constitutional convention.

Article I: Defines individual rights including life, liberty, property, freedom of speech, and the right to bear arms.
Article II: Sets voting qualifications and election rules, including secret balloting and procedures for runoff elections.
Article III: Describes the structure and functions of the General Assembly (legislative branch).
Article IV: Establishes state boards and commissions responsible for various governance aspects.
Article V: Defines qualifications and powers of the governor and lieutenant governor.
Article VI: Details the state court system, specifying seven court types.
Article VII: Grants the power to tax, listing taxation reasons and limits.
Article VIII: States the education system structure funded by taxes.
Article IX: Outlines the powers and structures of county and city governments.
Article X: Describes the amendment process requiring voter approval.
Article XI: Covers miscellaneous provisions related to Georgia's constitutional history.

Similarities: Both include a Bill of Rights, separation of powers, and amendment processes.
Differences: Georgia's Constitution is longer and more detailed, requires a balanced budget, allows voters to approve amendments directly, and provides specific local government functions.

Divided into three branches: legislative (General Assembly), executive (governor), and judicial (court system).
Each branch has distinct functions:
- Legislative: Makes laws
- Executive: Enforces laws
- Judicial: Interprets laws

Each branch limits the powers of the others to prevent any single branch from becoming too powerful.
For example, the executive can veto legislative bills, while the judicial can declare laws unconstitutional.

Citizens are guaranteed basic rights in both the U.S. and Georgia Constitutions, with Georgia listing more specific rights.
Responsibilities include obeying laws, paying taxes, serving on juries, and respecting others' rights.

Voting Qualifications: Must be a U.S. citizen, a legal resident of Georgia, at least 18 years old, and registered 30 days before an election.
Voting occurs at designated polling places, which are open from 7 AM to 7 PM.
The majority (50% + 1) is required for candidates to win; otherwise, a runoff is necessary.

The current state flag was adopted in 2003, featuring three stripes and the state coat of arms symbolizing the government branches.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Georgia Flag emphasizes the principles of Wisdom, Justice, Moderation, and Courage, reflecting the ideals of the state government.