Before 1972, the governor was elected for a term of two years. The state constitution was then amended so that beginning with the 1974 election, the governor would serve a maximum of two consecutive 4-year terms. Elections occur at the same time as the Congressional midterm elections, and each term begins on the second Monday of January following the election. The lieutenant governor is subject to the same limitations and runs on a combined ticket with the governor.
If the governor becomes incapacitated, the lieutenant governor assumes the duties of the governor. However if both offices become vacant, the line of succession is determined by the legislature. Under present law, the President of the Senate would be next in line to assume the governorship, followed by the Speaker of the House.
