The Path to Reform at the Highest Level Under Our Form of Government
Step 1: Proposing an Amendment
Option 1:
A two-thirds vote of Congress.
Option 2:
A two-thirds vote of the state legislatures (34/50).
** This will trigger a convention to propose a specific amendment.
Step 2: Ratifying an Amendment
Whether an amendment is proposed by Congress or a convention, Congress must determine how it will be ratified.
Option 1:
A three-quarters vote of the state legislatures (38/50).
Option 2:
A three-quarters vote of the conventions held in each state capitol (38/50).
Step 3: Certifying Ratification
Once the National Archives receives ratification notices from 38 states, the amendment will be added to the U.S. Constitution.