Kentucky Governor
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The Kentucky Governor is the head of the executive branch of the state of Kentucky, and serves as commander-in-chief of the state's army, navy, and militia forces.
The current officeholder is Steve Beshear.
Qualifications
The term of office of the governor of Kentucky is four years beginning on the fifth Tuesday after the election.
A candidate for governor is required to be:
- at least thirty years old
- have resided in the state for at least six years preceding the general election
Powers and responsibilities
Substantial power is granted to the governor of Kentucky. Historically, the office has been regarded as one of the most powerful executive positions in the United States.
With regards to the legislature
The governor exercises traditional veto power, which can be overridden by a majority of both houses of the General Assembly. He or she is also granted the privilege of a line-item veto. As with the U.S. President, the governor has the option of a pocket veto. Unlike the federal pocket veto, however, in the event that the legislature dismisses, preventing the return of the bill by the governor, the bill becomes law after ten days unless the governor explicitly vetoes it. (With the federal pocket veto, the bill is considered vetoed after ten days if the legislature dismisses.)
The governor may, in exceptional circumstances, call the General Assembly into special session. This is done by issuing a proclamation that includes the issue or issues to be addressed in the special session. Consideration of any other issues during the session is forbidden. Special sessions are to take place in the state capital except in cases of danger from enemies or disease; in such cases, the governor specifies the location of the session.
The governor is required to give a "State of the Commonwealth" address periodically to the General Assembly. Traditionally, this is an annual address. The governor is also charged with presenting a budget to the General Assembly every other year.
With regards to the judiciary
He or she is granted the traditional executive power of pardon except in cases of impeachment or treason.
With regards to appointments
The governor is given broad appointment power, and names many state commissioners and department heads without the need for legislative approval. The governor is also empowered to reorganize the state government or reduce it in size.
Contact information
700 Capitol Avenue, Suite 100
Frankfort, Kentucky 40601
Phone:502-564-2611
Fax:502-564-2517
TDD:502-564-9551
See also
- Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear
- Kentucky Lieutenant Governor
- Kentucky Attorney General
- Kentucky Secretary of State
External links
References
Portions of this article were adapted from Wikipedia.
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