Fundamental Law of the State of Costa Rica

Costa Rica was one of the most disciplined member states of the Central American Federal Republic, following the mandates of the federal government. The government conducted the corresponding elections for federal offices, sending soldiers to swell the federal army and paying taxes. After the Bases were issued by the National Constituent Assembly of Central America, instructions were given to member countries to establish local congresses and create state constitutions. This was done and the Fundamental Law of the State emanated from this process. Constituent Congress The Constituent Congress of the State of Costa Rica met from 1824-1825. It was the first Constituent Assembly convened in Costa Rica and produced the Fundamental Law. It was convened as part of the United Provinces of Central America, newly independent from Spain. Juan Mora Fernández was Provisional Supreme Chief in this period, but he was not part of the Congress. The Congress also defined the country's flag and coat of arms. This Constitution was in force until it was repealed by Carrillo when he took power in 1838. ==Content==

The Law prescribed the third-grade vote (based on the Cádiz Constitution) in which male citizens elected second-degree electors in parochial elections, parishes elected other first-degree electors by department, and finally elected policies. It created the Executive, Legislative and Judicial branches, as well as a fourth branch, called the Conservative Branch, which exercised state control, similar to the current Comptroller. It abolished the fueros to the military and the Church and drafted citizen rights. It chose the official name of Free State of Costa Rica. Tthe Head or Deputy Chief of State must be a Costa Rican by birth, a lay person, at least thirty years-old and owner of property worth not less than one thousand pesos or an annual income of two hundred pesos, or be a science professional. It also prescribed a term of four years, limited to two consecutive terms. The Legislative Branch (called Congress) was unicameral. Election was by popular vote. Among its powers was enacting legislation. It was also responsible to guard the Constitution, decree loans, commute sentences, issue pardons, receive the resignations of the members of the Supreme Powers and establish state borders. ==References==