MA Constitution
Which Constitution is older, Massachusetts or the Unites Sates?
The Constitution of Massachusetts is the oldest functioning written constitution.
How many State Senators arfe the in Massachusetts' State Government?
40
Many towns often hold these to make important decisions. During these, all registered voters have the opportunity to participate and vote on daily matters.
Town Meetings
In our country's federal system what level of government is generally thought to have the least amount of power or responsibility of the 3 levels?
Local Government
What is one similarity between the U.S. Constitution and the State Constitution of Massachusetts?
Both Constitutions establish governments with separate powers and three branches ( executive, judicial, legislative)
Both Constitutions protect certain individual liberties and rights.
What years was the Constitution of MA adopted?
1780
How many State Representatives are ther in Massachusetts?
160
In a city the this is the highest ranking official,they set policy and work with various departments and agencies to manage services and address issues:
Mayor
In our country's federal system what level of government is generally thought to have the most power?
Federal Government (U.S. Government)
What are 2 facts or responsibilities a governor might have?
-Highest ranking official in the state
-Responsible for the overall administration of the state and implementation of the laws.
-Commander in chief of the MA National Guard
-Can veto bills passed by the Legislature.
-Proposes state budgets and works with the Legislature to make sure it is passed.
Who wrote the MA Constitution?
John Adams
This the title of the person at the top of the executive branch in state government?
Governor
Many towns have one of these, they serve as the CEO of their towns and are responsible for day-to-day town operations
Town Manager
Government in the United States is divided into what 3 levels?
-Federal
-State
-Local
A provision in Article XIV (14) in the MA Constitution states that citizens have a right to be secure from unreasonable searches and seizures, this is closely related to what amendment found in the U.S. Constitution?
4th Amendment
What are 3 key differences between the Massachusetts and U.S. Constituions?
-MA emphasizes the individual right to education
-MA includes voting rights to a more diverse population
-MA includes strong protections for individual privacy (search and seizures)
-MA includes a stronger emphasis on checks and balances in government
The Massachusetts or state legislature is made up of 2 houses or chambers, what are they?
House of Representatives and Senate
In cities they are known as the legislative body of government, they can work closely with the mayor, and review and approve budgets?
The city council
What is Federalism?
the division of powers between the federal government and the states
The Massachusetts Constitution safeguards the right to education. It shows the state of Massachusetts’ commitment to education was a top priority when the Constitution was being written and is found in this number # Article in its Constitution? Article ______?
46
What is the Massachusetts Constitution, how is it defined?
the foundational legal document for the state of Massachusetts, or the fundamental governing document of Massachusetts.
How many justices (including the chief justice) are there in the MA Supreme Judicial Court?
7
Government at the local level and how it works can vary between these 2 types of places?
Cities and Towns
This number amendment says that the Federal Government only has specific powers that are listed in the Constitution. Any powers not listed in the Federal Constitution belongs to the states or the people.
10th Amendment
This group of people acts like the executive branch of local government. They are responsible for managing town issues, setting policy, and implementing decisions.
Select Board