What is the minimum percentage of state legislatures required to ratify an amendment?

Study for the Foundations of American Democracy and Federalism Test with engaging flashcards and insightful multiple-choice questions, all including detailed hints and explanations. Ace your exam with confidence!

The correct answer is that 75% of state legislatures are required to ratify an amendment. This requirement is established by Article V of the United States Constitution, which outlines the process for amending the Constitution. Specifically, an amendment can be proposed either by a two-thirds majority vote in both houses of Congress or by a constitutional convention called for by two-thirds of the state legislatures. Once proposed, for the amendment to become part of the Constitution, it must then be ratified by three-fourths of the state legislatures, which equates to 75%.

This requirement ensures that any amendment has broad support across the states, reflecting a consensus rather than a simple majority, thus maintaining the stability and integrity of the Constitution.

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