THE GEORGIA CONSTITUTION

1. THE GEORGIA CONSTITUTION • Outlines the framework for the state government • Defines the rights of Georgia citizens • Establishes the basis for state laws • Georgia has had ten constitutions, with the latest being adopted in 1983

2. The Structure of the Georgia Constitution • Preamble – Introduction – describes the reasons for the creation of the state constitution • Articles – Eleven Articles that spell out the structure and role of the Georgia government and the rights of the citizens • Amendments – Changes to the constitution that have been approved through the amendment process

3. Constitution Structure Continued • KEY ARTICLES • Article I – Bill of Rights – spells out the rights of Georgia citizens • Article II – Voting and Elections – establishes the qualifications and procedures for voting and elections

4. Constitution Structure Continued • Key Articles Continued • Article III – Legislative Branch – spells out the role of the legislative branch, the qualifications for legislators and process for electing legislators • Article V – Executive Branch – spells out the role of the executive branch and describes the constitutional officers of the departments prescribed by the constitution

5. Constitution Structure Continued • Key Articles Continued • Article VI – Judicial Branch – spells out the role of the judicial branch and describes the courts within the judicial branch • Article X – Amendments – describes the process for amending the constitution