Constitution of the State of Georgia
1983
Georgia's constitution of 1983 is the state's tenth, a distinction reflecting Georgia's turbulent constitutional history across two centuries of statehood. The 1983 document replaced the constitution of 1976, which had itself been a consolidation of the 1945 constitution with its hundreds of amendments, many of which were local-law provisions of no statewide significance. The 1983 revision was a genuine effort to produce a cleaner, shorter, and more principled document, eliminating thousands of local constitutional amendments by moving such matters to general statute and reinforcing the separation of powers. It took effect on July 1, 1983, and has been amended many times since, though it remains considerably shorter than the constitution it replaced.
Preamble
To perpetuate the principles of free government, insure justice to all, preserve peace, promote the interest and happiness of the citizen and of the family, and transmit to posterity the enjoyment of liberty, we the people of Georgia, relying upon the protection and guidance of Almighty God, do ordain and establish this Constitution.
Bill of Rights
The enumeration of rights herein contained as a part of this Constitution shall not be construed to deny to the people any inherent rights which they may have hitherto enjoyed. No person shall be deprived of life, liberty, or property except by due process of law. Protection of the individual against governmental interference with private or personal matters in which the public has no legitimate concern violates the right of privacy. No person shall be denied the equal protection of the laws. Freedom of conscience and of religious opinion shall not be so construed as to excuse acts of licentiousness or justify practices inconsistent with the peace and safety of the state.