Constitution of the State of Indiana
1851
Indiana's second and current constitution was framed in a convention that met in Indianapolis from October 1850 through February 1851 and ratified by voters in August of that year, taking effect on November 1, 1851. The framers were responding to widespread dissatisfaction with the 1816 constitution, which gave the legislature nearly unchecked power and had produced a state banking scandal that left Indiana deeply in debt. The 1851 document imposed strict fiscal limits on the legislature, prohibited state investment in private enterprises, and established an elected rather than appointed judiciary. It is one of the oldest state constitutions still in continuous operation, having been amended dozens of times but never replaced.
Preamble
TO THE END, that justice be established, public order maintained, and liberty perpetuated; WE, the People of the State of Indiana, grateful to ALMIGHTY GOD for the free exercise of the right to choose our own form of government, do ordain this Constitution.
Article 1 — Bill of Rights
Section 1. WE DECLARE, That all people are created equal; that they are endowed by their CREATOR with certain unalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness; that all power is inherent in the people; and that all free governments are, and of right ought to be, founded on their authority, and instituted for their peace, safety, and well-being. For the advancement of these ends, the people have, at all times, an indefeasible right to alter and reform their government. Section 2. All people shall be secured in the natural right to worship ALMIGHTY GOD, according to the dictates of their own consciences. Section 3. No law shall, in any case whatever, control the free exercise and enjoyment of religious opinions, or interfere with the rights of conscience. Section 9. No law shall be passed, restraining the free interchange of thought and opinion, or restricting the right to speak, write, or print, freely, on any subject whatever: but for the abuse of that right, every person shall be responsible.