What is the ratification process?

The ratification process is the process a proposed bill has to undergo in order for in to be in effect. In the U.S. government, there are two types of ratifications, ratification of a foreign treaty and ratification of a constitutional amendment.

The history of ratification goes as far back as the constitution. States had to power to amend the United States constitution when Congress handed the constitution to state legislatures for consideration through their elected officials. From December 1787 to January 1788, five state assemblies voted unanimously to approve of a newly crafted constitution. These state included New Jersey, Delaware, Georgia, Pennsylvania and Connecticut.