Ohio Constitution Article IX - Militia
Ohio Constitution – Article IX: Militia – Summary
Article IX of the Ohio Constitution deals with the militia—the state’s organized military forces. This article outlines the structure, authority, and responsibilities of the militia in Ohio. Here's a summary of its key provisions:
1. Who Makes Up the Militia
All able-bodied citizens of Ohio, typically between the ages of 17 and 67 (as defined by law), may be required to serve in the militia.
Exceptions apply as provided by state or federal law.
2. Organization and Discipline
The General Assembly (Ohio’s legislature) has the power to:
Organize, equip, and discipline the militia.
Provide for volunteer militia units.
The organization must be consistent with the laws of the United States.
3. Governor as Commander-in-Chief
The Governor of Ohio serves as the Commander-in-Chief of the state militia.
The Governor may call the militia to:
Enforce state laws,
Suppress insurrections,
Repel invasions.
4. Military Officers
Officers of the militia are appointed or elected as directed by law.
Their qualifications and commissions are also governed by state statutes.
5. Exemptions
Certain citizens may be exempt from militia duty due to:
Religious beliefs (e.g., conscientious objectors),
Disability or other lawful grounds.
6. Armories and Equipment
The state may maintain armories, arsenals, and military equipment for the use of the militia.
7. No Standing Army
Ohio is prohibited from keeping a standing army in times of peace, except for state defense as authorized by law.
8. Civilian Control
The military is always subordinate to civil authority, affirming the principle of civilian control over the military.
This article reflects both state sovereignty and alignment with federal military laws, particularly in the operation of the Ohio National Guard and other defense forces.
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