What is judicial review?

• A. The process of appealing to the Supreme Court.
• B. The ability of citizens to vote on laws.
• C. The power of the executive to veto bills.
• D. The power of courts to declare acts of the legislature unconstitutional and void.

Answer: (D)

Judicial review is the power of courts to examine laws and government actions to determine whether they conform to the Constitution. If a court finds a statute or executive action violates constitutional provisions, it can declare it unconstitutional and void, preventing its enforcement. This creates a crucial check and balance, ensuring that both the legislature and the executive act within constitutional limits and protecting individual rights. In Kentucky, as in other states, state courts interpret the state constitution and can strike down state laws that conflict with it, just as federal courts do with the U.S. Constitution.