What is an Amendatory Veto? A Comprehensive Legal Overview

Definition & Meaning

An amendatory veto is a specific power exercised by governors in certain states, allowing them to reject a legislative decision while proposing changes or amendments to that decision. This authority enables governors to influence legislation by suggesting modifications before a bill can become law. Currently, seven states in the U.S. grant their governors this amendatory veto power.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A governor receives a bill that increases funding for public education but includes a provision that reallocates funds from healthcare. The governor issues an amendatory veto, suggesting that the healthcare funding should remain intact while still increasing education funding.

Example 2: A state passes a bill to regulate small businesses, but the governor believes certain regulations are too burdensome. The governor uses the amendatory veto to propose changes that would ease these regulations while maintaining consumer protections. (hypothetical example)

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State Amendatory Veto Power
Illinois Allows amendatory vetoes with specific legislative procedures.
New Jersey Permits governors to amend bills before signing.
Ohio No amendatory veto power; governors can only sign or veto.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition
Regular Veto A governor's outright rejection of a bill without amendments.
Line-Item Veto The power to reject specific provisions in a bill while approving others.
Amendatory Veto A veto that includes proposed changes to the legislation being rejected.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are involved in a legislative process that may be subject to an amendatory veto, consider the following steps:

  • Stay informed about the status of the bill and any proposed amendments from the governor.
  • Consult with legal professionals if you need clarification on how the amendatory veto may affect your interests.
  • Explore US Legal Forms for templates that can assist you in drafting proposals or understanding legislative processes.

Quick facts

Attribute Details
States with Power Seven states in the U.S.
Typical Use To propose amendments to legislation.
Legislative Process Requires consideration by the legislature.

Key takeaways