What is an amendment?

An amendment refers specifically to a formal change or addition to the Constitution. The process of amending the Constitution allows for the legal and procedural updates necessary to reflect the evolving needs and values of society. This is a crucial mechanism for maintaining the relevance and appropriateness of constitutional law over time. Amendments can address a variety of issues, such as individual rights, governance structures, or procedural changes, and they require a significant consensus to be ratified, indicating their importance in the constitutional framework.

In contrast, a law passed by Congress, while important in the legislative process, does not alter the Constitution itself. Similarly, a Supreme Court decision interprets the Constitution and can set legal precedents, but it does not constitute an amendment. Lastly, adjustments to a state constitution may pertain to specific state governance but do not qualify as amendments to the federal Constitution. Thus, the definition of an amendment is precise and integral to understanding constitutional law.