Constitution of Utah
1896
Utah's constitution was adopted in 1895 and the state was admitted to the Union on January 4, 1896, ending a decades-long struggle for statehood that had been blocked by Congress largely due to the practice of polygamy in the Latter-day Saint community. The constitutional convention at Salt Lake City produced a document that explicitly prohibited polygamy as a condition of statehood, a provision the federal government required before granting admission. The constitution established a strong bill of rights, a three-branch government, and public education provisions reflecting Utah's strong communal and religious heritage. It remains the governing document of the state today, amended periodically but retaining its original framework.
Preamble
Grateful to Almighty God for life and liberty, we, the people of Utah, in order to secure and perpetuate the principles of free government, do ordain and establish this CONSTITUTION.
Article I — Declaration of Rights
Section 1. [Inherent and inalienable rights.] All men have the inherent and inalienable right to enjoy and defend their lives and liberties; to acquire, possess and protect property; to worship according to the dictates of their consciences; to assemble peaceably, protest against wrongs, and petition for redress of grievances; to communicate freely their thoughts and opinions, being responsible for the abuse of that right. Section 2. [All political power inherent in the people.] All political power is inherent in the people; and all free governments are founded on their authority for their equal protection and benefit, and they have the right to alter or reform their government as the public welfare may require. Section 14. [Unreasonable searches forbidden -- issuance of warrant.] The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers and effects against unreasonable searches and seizures shall not be violated; and no warrant shall issue but upon probable cause supported by oath or affirmation, particularly describing the place to be searched, and the person or thing to be seized.