Georgia Constitution Practice Exam

What is the voting requirement to pass a bill in the House or Senate?

1. A majority of all members

2. A majority of those voting

3. Two-thirds of all members

4. Two-thirds of those voting

The correct answer is: A majority of all members

To successfully pass a bill in either the House or Senate, the requirement is a majority of all members present, including those who may be absent. This means that if a majority of the total membership of that chamber votes in favor of the bill, it will be deemed passed. This standard is grounded in the principle of majority rule, which is a foundational concept in legislative processes to ensure that the will of the larger group carries the decision. It allows for effective governance by enabling a more streamlined process when a sufficient number of lawmakers support a measure. In contrast, other options may discuss different thresholds for action, such as a two-thirds majority, which is typically only required for certain types of votes, such as overriding a veto or amending the constitution. Additionally, the option discussing a majority of those voting does not account for those members who are either absent or who choose not to vote, which could lead to a scenario where bills are passed with less than a true majority of the chamber's full membership. Thus, the requirement of a majority of all members successfully reflects the legislative framework established within the Georgia Constitution.