Constitutional amendments differ from ordinary legislation in that they require a more rigorous process for enactment. While regular laws can typically be passed by a simple majority in the legislature, amendments often need a higher threshold, such as a supermajority or ratification by states. This process is designed to ensure that changes to the constitution reflect a broad consensus and withstand potential political shifts. Moreover, amendments usually address fundamental principles of governance, establishing a more permanent shift compared to the more flexible nature of standard legislative measures.