What is required for amending the Constitution?

The process for amending the Constitution is specifically outlined in Article V of the Constitution itself. It requires two distinct steps: first, an amendment must be proposed, and this can be done either by a two-thirds majority vote in both the House of Representatives and the Senate or by a national convention called by two-thirds of state legislatures. Second, once proposed, the amendment must be ratified by three-fourths of the state legislatures or by conventions in three-fourths of the states.

Choosing the option that states approval by two-thirds of Congress and three-fourths of the states accurately reflects this established procedure. This rigorous process is designed to ensure that amendments have widespread support across both federal and state levels, which is essential for preserving the integrity and stability of the Constitution.

The other options do not align with the constitutional requirements. For example, a simple majority in both houses would not suffice for amendment. Likewise, a national referendum is not part of the amendment process as defined by the Constitution, nor is presidential approval required for amendments to take effect.