What is an amendment?

An amendment is defined as a change or an addition to the Constitution. The U.S. Constitution, established in 1787, provides a framework for government and individual rights but is not a static document. Over time, it has been necessary to adapt to new circumstances, societal changes, and evolving values. This is accomplished through amendments.

The amendment process is intentionally rigorous, requiring significant consensus among states and Congress, emphasizing the importance of amendments and ensuring that only essential changes reflect the will of the people. As there have been 27 amendments added to the Constitution since its ratification, each one represents a substantive change to the established law or rights.

In contrast, a law passed by Congress reflects legislation that may govern various matters but does not alter the fundamental framework of the Constitution itself. A section of a bill refers to portions of proposed legislation rather than constitutional changes. A judicial decision pertains to rulings made by courts, often interpreting laws or the Constitution, but does not constitute an amendment. With this context, the distinction of what constitutes an amendment becomes clear, reinforcing that the correct choice is indeed a change or addition to the Constitution.