What are strengths and weaknesses of the Texas Constitution?

Answer 1

Weaknesses

• v There are 93,000 words in the Texas Constitution.
• v The Texas Constitution has been amended 467 times, making it one of the most frequently amended constitutions among the states.
• v It was written during the era of cowboys and cattle drives, causing it to be very outdated.
• v Since it is so precise, it has become a long list of specific rules rather than a set of fundamental legal principles for state law.
• v Also, because of its preciseness, there is no flexibility.
• v Because of this, the Texas Constitution is unorganized.
• v Legislature session is only 140 days long every other year.
• v The election of judges causes Texans to think that the judiciary is overly influenced by money.
• v All constitutional amendments are voted on during a special session or an odd year when there is less voter turnout.

Strengths

• v Texas is definitely NOT trying to become a dictator.
• v It specifies the creation of two high courts.
• v Even though the legislature sessions are only 140 days long, the governor can call a special 30 day session.
• v Forbids the government from imposing a state tax without the approval from the majority of the voters.
• v The constitution places a high value on individual freedom
• v I personally think it is a strength that they left God in the constitution instead of taking him out like the rest of the nation seems to be doing.

Answer 2

1.) The Constitution is too statutory in nature

a.) too much detail and many conflicting stipulations

2.) Too much fragmentation of government authority and responsibility, especially within the executive branch, can produce gridlock and conflict

a.) Plural executive - the governor only appoints the secretary of state while the other executive officials in the executive branch are elected independently

b.) county governments may be plagued with political conflict and tension that may lead to inefficiency and mismanagement

3.) Too many elective positions

a.) besides the plural executive and county governments, a host of judiciary positions are also elective

4.) An amateur Texas legislature

a.) part-time

b.) low-paid

c.) not yet sufficiently professional

d.) relatively easily influenced by special interests

Answer 3

It has no flexability

Answer 4

weakness of texas constitution