Indiana Constitution ARTICLE 13.

Indiana Constitution – Article 13: Local Government and Corporations (titled "Municipal Debt" in historical contexts) primarily deals with restrictions on municipal corporations (such as counties, cities, and towns) regarding debt and financial liabilities.

Here’s a summary of Article 13:

Summary of Article 13 – Municipal Debt

Section 1. Limitation on Debt of Local Governments

Counties, cities, towns, and townships are prohibited from incurring debt exceeding 2% of the assessed value of taxable property within their jurisdiction.

This restriction is intended to limit public debt and protect financial responsibility at the local level.

Section 2. Exceptions to Debt Limit

Exceptions can be made in case of war, public danger, or other great emergencies, but only:

With legislative authorization, and

By a majority vote of property owners or voters, depending on the statute.

Section 3. State Non-liability

The State of Indiana shall not assume or pay the debts of any county, city, town, or township.

This article reflects a traditional constitutional emphasis on fiscal restraint and local responsibility, ensuring that local entities cannot overextend financially without the approval of their constituents or the legislature.

 

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