Tennessee Constitution Article I - Declaration of Rights.
Article I – Declaration of Rights
of the Tennessee Constitution is the foundational section outlining the basic rights and freedoms guaranteed to the citizens of Tennessee. It serves a similar role as the U.S. Bill of Rights but is tailored to the state’s legal framework.
📜 Overview of Tennessee Constitution — Article I: Declaration of Rights
Article I contains 30 sections detailing fundamental civil liberties, including:
🔑 Key Highlights:
Section 1 – Political Power
All political power is vested in the people and derived from them.
Section 2 – Equal Rights and Privileges
All men are created equal and entitled to equal rights and privileges.
Section 3 – Freedom of Religion
Guarantees freedom of conscience and religious worship; no person can be compelled to support any religious worship or ministry.
Section 4 – Freedom of Speech and Press
Secures the right of free speech and a free press.
Section 5 – Right to Assemble and Petition
The people have the right to assemble and petition the government for redress of grievances.
Section 6 – Bearing Arms
The right of citizens to keep and bear arms is recognized.
Section 7 – Searches and Seizures
Protection against unreasonable searches and seizures; warrants must be supported by oath or affirmation.
Section 8 – Rights of the Accused
Guarantees rights to a fair trial, due process, and protections against double jeopardy, self-incrimination, and excessive bail or cruel punishment.
Section 16 – Education
The General Assembly shall provide for the establishment of a system of free public schools.
Section 27 – Imprisonment for Debt
Prohibits imprisonment for debt in most cases.
🏛️ Interpretation and Importance:
Tennessee’s Declaration of Rights is one of the oldest in the U.S., originally adopted in 1796 and amended several times.
It reflects the state’s commitment to individual liberties and limits on government power.
Courts in Tennessee often interpret this article to protect state citizens’ rights, sometimes more expansively than federal law.
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