The Senate of Puerto Rico is the upper house of the Legislative Assembly of Puerto Rico, smaller than the House of Representatives. Together, they compose the legislative branch of the government of Puerto Rico.
Composition
In order to elect the members of the Senate, Puerto Rico is divided into eight senatorial districts :
For each one of these districts, the people of Puerto Rico elect two Senators . In addition, the people are allowed to vote for one Senator at-large of their preference. The eleven Senators at-Large with the majority of votes integrate the rest of the Senate.
Article III of the Constitution of Puerto Rico states that no person shall be a member of the Senate unless he:
- is capable of reading and writing in either Spanish or English;
- is a citizen of the United States and Puerto Rico;
- has resided in Puerto Rico for at least two years immediately prior to the date of his election or appointment;
- is over thirty years of age.
External links
Last updated: 08-30-2005 05:09:36
