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A Lesson in Civics

(by Mary Lou Wells Plainfield - October 08, 2008)

Editor:


I feel the need to teach some Civics. I don't know if some people never had Civics in school or they just forgot it. The United States of America is governed with separation of its power and a system of checks and balances:

1. The LEGISLATIVE BRANCH is responsible for making laws.

2. The EXECUTIVE BRANCH is responsible for carrying out and enforcing laws.

3. The JUDICIAL BRANCH is responsible for managing conflicts over the interpretation, application, and enforcement of laws.

The power to make laws is given to the Legislative Branch of Government, which is divided between the House of Representatives and the Senate. Yes, the President can veto laws; the Legislative Branch can override the veto.

The Constitution of the Unites States of America, in Article I, Section 8, spells out the many powers held by Congress, including the power to lay and collect taxes; to borrow money; to regulate commerce; to coin money; to provide for punishment; to constitute tribunals to the Supreme Court; to define and punish against the Law of Nations; to declare war; to raise and support armies; to provide and maintain a navy; to make rules for the Government; to provide for calling forth the militia to execute the laws; to provide for organizing, arming and disciplining the militia; and to make all laws which shall be necessary and proper for carrying into execution and foregoing powers

For the past two years, the majority of United States Legislative has been Democratic, as well as the Vermont Legislature. Do yourself a favor and know what you're talking about before you start blaming any one person for the state of our country.

If you╒re going to take the time to complain, know who and how your representatives have voted or locked things up.

Civics education is so very important. It should be a mandatory class in school. Before any one is of voting age, they have the right to know how our Government runs. Their vote should be based on knowledge, not hearsay from someone that could be biased. So, vote and if you don't vote, don't complain!!!!


Mary Lou Wells

Plainfield