What body is involved in proposing an amendment to the Virginia Constitution?

The General Assembly is the correct response because it is the primary legislative body in Virginia responsible for the introduction and proposal of amendments to the state constitution. This legislative process must go through a specific procedure outlined in the Virginia Constitution itself, wherein an amendment can be proposed by either house of the General Assembly, requiring a majority vote in both the House of Delegates and the Senate.

Once the General Assembly proposes an amendment, it typically must be approved in two successive sessions of the General Assembly or be referred to the voters in a referendum, ensuring that there is public consideration of the amendment. This two-step process emphasizes the legislative power and role of the General Assembly in shaping the state’s foundational legal document, reflecting the democratic principles upon which the government operates.

Other entities mentioned, such as the State Council and local governments, do not have the authority to propose constitutional amendments. The process cannot be initiated solely through a popular vote, although citizen voting on an amendment may occur after legislative approval. Thus, the General Assembly plays a critical role in the amendment process within the Virginia Constitution.