Terms starting with "E"

Electorate The entire body of people in a country or region who are entitled to vote in an election. Emergency Declaration An emergency declaration is an official action by an authorized government official that recognizes an emergency and activates specified powers, resources, or procedures. The legal effect depends on the declaration type, the law authorizing it, and the scope and duration of the declaration. Eminent Domain The inherent power of a government to take private property for public use, provided that the owner receives 'just compensation' as required by the Takings Clause of the Fifth Amendment. En Banc A legal term meaning 'on the bench,' referring to a case heard by all the judges of a court, rather than by a smaller, rotating panel of judges. It is typically reserved for cases of exceptional importance. En Banc Review En banc review is review of a case by all active judges of a federal court of appeals, or by a larger group under the circuit's rules, rather than by the usual three-judge panel. Courts may grant en banc review to resolve important questions or conflicts within the circuit. En Bloc En bloc means together as a group. In legislative procedure, members may consider or vote on multiple amendments or items together rather than separately, when the chamber's rules permit that approach. Early Voting Early voting allows voters to cast ballots in person before Election Day during a period established by state or local law. It can reduce Election Day lines and give voters more scheduling options. The dates, locations, eligibility rules, and hours vary by jurisdiction. Earmark A provision inserted into a discretionary spending appropriations bill that directs approved funds to a specific recipient, circumventing standard merit-based or competitive award processes. Eighth Amendment The Eighth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution prohibits excessive bail, excessive fines, and cruel and unusual punishments. Courts have interpreted these protections in cases involving criminal penalties, prison conditions, and other government actions related to punishment. Elastic Clause Also known as the Necessary and Proper Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 18), it grants Congress the power to pass all laws 'necessary and proper' for carrying out the enumerated list of powers, allowing the Constitution to adapt to changing circumstances. Election Day The designated day on which general elections are held. In the United States, federal Election Day is legally set as the Tuesday following the first Monday in November. Elector A member of the Electoral College, chosen by a state's political party, who formally casts a vote for President and Vice President based on the outcome of the state's popular vote. There are 538 electors in total.