The Constitution of the State of Florida: A Comprehensive Guide (2024 Edition)

The Constitution of the State of Florida, adopted in 1968 and amended numerous times since then, is the fundamental law of the state. It establishes the structure and powers of the state government, protects the rights of citizens, and defines the relationship between the state and its citizens.

Preamble

The Preamble to the Constitution of the State of Florida states the purpose of the document:

Constitution Of the State of Florida (As published in 2024): As Revised in 1968 and Subsequently Amended

by Roksy-Store Publishing

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2792 KB
Print length	:	301 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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"We, the people of the State of Florida, being grateful for the blessings of liberty and in order to secure the benefits thereof, do establish this Constitution for the perpetuation of the union among us and to secure justice, tranquility, internal improvement, prosperity, and general welfare for ourselves and our posterity."

Structure of the Constitution

The Constitution of the State of Florida is divided into 12 Articles, each covering a specific topic. These Articles are further divided into Sections, which provide specific details and rules.

The Articles of the Constitution are as follows:

1. Declaration of Rights
2. The Legislature
3. The Executive Branch
4. The Judiciary
5. Education
6. Suffrage and Elections
7. Finance and Taxation
8. Local Government
9. Intergovernmental Relations
10. Amendment and Revision
11. General Provisions
12. Schedule

Key Provisions

Declaration of Rights

• Guarantees fundamental rights such as freedom of speech, religion, and assembly
• Prohibits unreasonable searches and seizures
• Protects the right to bear arms
• Guarantees due process and equal protection of the law

The Legislature

• Establishes a bicameral legislature consisting of the Senate and the House of Representatives
• Defines the powers and responsibilities of the legislature
• Sets rules for the passage and amendment of laws

The Executive Branch

• Creates the offices of Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and Cabinet
• Defines the powers and responsibilities of the Governor
• Establishes the state agencies and departments

The Judiciary

• Establishes a unified court system consisting of the Supreme Court, District Courts of Appeal, Circuit Courts, and County Courts
• Defines the jurisdiction and powers of the courts
• Protects the independence of the judiciary

Amendments

The Constitution of the State of Florida can be amended through a process initiated by the legislature or by citizen petition. Amendments must be approved by a majority of voters in a statewide referendum.

Since its adoption in 1968, the Constitution has been amended over 200 times. Significant amendments include those that:

• Established term limits for the Governor and Cabinet members
• Increased the homestead exemption for property taxes
• Established a "right to privacy" in the state constitution
• Authorized the use of medical marijuana
• Banned offshore oil and gas drilling

The Constitution of the State of Florida is a living document that has been shaped by the needs and values of its citizens over time. It is a testament to the commitment of the people of Florida to the principles of liberty, democracy, and self-government.

The Constitution of the State of Florida is available online at the Florida Legislature's website: https://www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Constitution

Additional Resources

• Florida Supreme Court
• Florida Senate
• Florida House of Representatives

A comprehensive overview of the Constitution of the State of Florida, adopted in 1968 and amended numerous times since then. The article provides a detailed explanation of the structure, key provisions, and amendments of the Constitution, as well as additional resources for further exploration.

Constitution Of the State of Florida (As published in 2024): As Revised in 1968 and Subsequently Amended

by Roksy-Store Publishing

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2792 KB
Print length	:	301 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE