The Constitution of the United States can be amended through the following process:
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Proposal by Congress: An amendment can be proposed if it is approved by a two-thirds majority in both the House of Representatives and the Senate.
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Proposal by a Constitutional Convention: Alternatively, an amendment can be proposed by a convention called for by two-thirds of the state legislatures. This method has never been used.
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Ratification by States: Once proposed, an amendment must be ratified by three-fourths (currently 38 out of 50) of the state legislatures or by conventions in three-fourths of the states.
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Time Limit on Ratification: Congress may set a time limit for ratification, but it is not required to do so. If a time limit is set, states must ratify the amendment within that time frame.
These steps ensure a balance between federal and state powers and allow for a deliberative process in changing the nation's foundational legal document.