Arizona Constitution Article 2 - DECLARATION OF RIGHTS
Arizona Constitution – Article 2: Declaration of Rights
🔹 Short Heading:
Arizona’s Bill of Rights
📘 Plain English Overview:
Article 2 of the Arizona Constitution serves as the state’s Declaration of Rights, similar to the U.S. Bill of Rights. It outlines the fundamental rights and freedoms guaranteed to every person in Arizona.
There are 37 sections (as amended), covering a wide range of civil liberties.
🏛️ Key Sections and What They Mean:
Section 1 – Fundamental Principles:
All political power is inherent in the people; governments exist to protect their rights.
Section 2 – Political Power; Purpose of Government:
The government must protect individual rights and freedoms.
Section 3 – Supreme Law of the Land:
The U.S. Constitution is the highest law, but state rights are also protected.
Section 4 – Due Process of Law:
No person shall be deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process.
Section 6 – Freedom of Speech and Press:
Absolute freedom of speech and press is guaranteed; libel is still punishable.
Section 8 – Right to Privacy:
Protects citizens from unreasonable searches and seizures.
Section 12 – Right to Bear Arms:
Guarantees the right to keep and bear arms for personal defense.
Section 13 – Equal Privileges and Immunities:
No law shall grant privileges or immunities to one group that don't apply equally to others.
Section 15 – Prohibition of Excessive Punishment:
Prohibits cruel and unusual punishment, and life imprisonment without possibility of parole for minors (as amended).
Section 32 – Victims’ Rights ("Victims' Bill of Rights"):
Crime victims have specific rights, such as to be informed, present, and heard during criminal proceedings.
⚖️ Purpose and Importance:
Article 2 provides strong civil liberty protections.
Many of its rights go beyond the U.S. Constitution, reflecting Arizona’s commitment to personal freedoms and justice.
It is binding on all branches of state and local government.
RELATED Blog
0 comments