Ohio Constitution Article VII - Public Institutions
Ohio Constitution – Article VII: Public Institutions
Overview:
Article VII of the Ohio Constitution focuses on the establishment, support, and oversight of public institutions that serve benevolent, educational, and correctional purposes. It provides a legal basis for the state to assist and maintain institutions for the care and benefit of specific groups in need, including the poor, the mentally ill, and the incarcerated.
🔹 Key Provisions of Article VII
Section 1: Institutions for the Benefit of the People
The General Assembly must provide support for institutions:
For the insane, blind, and deaf and dumb (historical language—now refers to those with mental illness, visual impairment, or hearing impairment).
For juvenile offenders and other correctional institutions.
These institutions must be open to all under regulations set by law.
Section 2: Financial Support
Allows the General Assembly to support public and private institutions that serve charitable, educational, or correctional purposes not under the exclusive control of the state.
Support must be provided in a non-discriminatory way and according to uniform laws.
Section 3: Lands for Institutions
Permits the state to receive and hold land donated or purchased for use by public institutions.
The land must be used for the intended public or charitable purpose.
🧩 Purpose and Importance
Reflects a 19th-century commitment to institutional care for vulnerable populations.
Ensures state responsibility in upholding human dignity through public service institutions.
Provides a legal structure for funding, managing, and expanding state-supported care facilities.
🏛️ Modern Implications
Although the language is dated, Article VII still provides the constitutional basis for:
State hospitals
Disability services
Youth rehabilitation centers
Partnerships with nonprofit care organizations
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