Constitution of the State of Delaware
1897
Delaware's constitution of 1897 is the fourth in the state's history, following documents adopted in 1776, 1792, and 1831, and it remains in force today as one of the older state constitutions still operative. The 1897 convention was called largely in response to pressure from business interests seeking a more favorable legal environment, and Delaware has since become the dominant state for corporate chartering in the United States, a development shaped by the constitutional and statutory framework put in place around that era. Delaware's constitution has a distinctive amendment process: unlike most states, it does not require a referendum for constitutional amendments, which instead become effective when approved by two successive sessions of the General Assembly, making it easier for the legislature to update the document over time.
Preamble
Through Divine goodness, all men have by nature the rights of worshipping and serving their Creator according to the dictates of their consciences, of enjoying and defending life and liberty, of acquiring and protecting reputation and property, and in general of obtaining objects suitable to their condition, without injury by one to another; and as these rights are essential to their welfare, for due exercise thereof, power is inherent in them; and therefore all just authority in the institutions of political society is derived from the people, and established with their consent, to advance their happiness; and they may for this end, as circumstances require, from time to time, alter their Constitution of government.
Bill of Rights
Although the general, great and essential principles of liberty and free government are recognized and established by the Constitution, yet the people of this State, wishing through their Representatives in Convention assembled, to make more explicit and clear their rights and the limitations of power, do declare and establish the following Bill of Rights: All men have a natural and unalienable right to worship Almighty God according to the dictates of their own consciences and understandings. No power shall or ought to be vested in or assumed by any magistrate that shall in any case interfere with, or in any manner control the rights of conscience in the free exercise of religious worship, nor a preference given by law to any religious societies, denominations, or modes of worship.