Constitution of Tennessee

Tennessee_Constitution_of_1835

The Constitution of Tennessee is the fundamental governing document of the U.S. state of Tennessee. It establishes the structure and function of the state government and outlines the rights and responsibilities of its citizens. The current constitution was adopted in 1870, replacing the previous versions from 1796 and 1835.

History

The first Constitution of Tennessee was adopted in 1796 when Tennessee was admitted to the Union as the 16th state. This constitution was modeled after the Constitution of the United States and the constitutions of other states. In 1835, a new constitution was adopted to address various issues and to modernize the state's governance. The current constitution, adopted in 1870, was created in the aftermath of the American Civil War and the Reconstruction era.

Structure

The Constitution of Tennessee is divided into a preamble and eleven articles:

• Preamble: States the purpose of the constitution.
• Article I: Declaration of Rights: Enumerates the rights of the citizens of Tennessee, similar to the Bill of Rights in the U.S. Constitution.
• Article II: Distribution of Powers: Establishes the separation of powers among the executive, legislative, and judicial branches.
• Article III: Executive Department: Defines the powers and duties of the Governor and other executive officers.
• Article IV: Elections: Outlines the rules and procedures for elections in the state.
• Article V: Impeachment and Removal from Office: Provides the process for the impeachment and removal of state officials.
• Article VI: Judicial Department: Establishes the structure and jurisdiction of the state court system.
• Article VII: State and County Officers: Details the roles and responsibilities of various state and county officials.
• Article VIII: Militia: Provides for the organization and regulation of the state militia.
• Article IX: Disqualifications: Lists the disqualifications for holding public office.
• Article X: Oaths: Prescribes the oaths of office for state officials.
• Article XI: Miscellaneous Provisions: Contains various other provisions, including the process for amending the constitution.

Amendments

The Constitution of Tennessee can be amended through a process that requires approval by both the Tennessee General Assembly and the voters of the state. Proposed amendments must first be approved by a majority of both houses of the General Assembly in two consecutive sessions. The amendment is then placed on the ballot for a statewide referendum, where it must receive a majority of votes to be ratified.

Significance

The Constitution of Tennessee is a vital document that ensures the proper functioning of the state government and protects the rights of its citizens. It reflects the values and principles of the people of Tennessee and provides a framework for governance that has evolved over time to meet the changing needs of the state.

Related Pages

• Tennessee General Assembly
• Governor of Tennessee
• Judiciary of Tennessee
• History of Tennessee
• Reconstruction era
• American Civil War

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