Michigan Constitution of 1963

The citizens of Michigan and elsewhere ought to be keenly interested in their state constitutions because they set forth the obligations and limits on our state and local governments.  Moreover, state constitutions often recognize greater constitutional rights than does our US Constitution.  Without knowing what those rights are, however, one cannot know when they are violated, much less be able to defend or assert them.

We hope by offering the text of our Michigan Constitution online that the citizens of Michigan will come to better know their rights and understand the limitations and obligations of our state and local governments. 

The Michigan Constitution of 1963 was adopted by a very thin margin.  The vote, as certified by the Board of Canvassers on June 20, 1963, was 810,436 in favor, to 803,436 opposed.

Due to the length of our state constitution, it is presented article by article, with the exception of the Preamble:

• Preamble: 

We, the people of the State of Michigan, grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of freedom, and earnestly desiring to secure these blessings undiminished to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this constitution.

• Article I:  Declaration of Rights
• Article II:  Elections
• Article III:  General Government
• Article IV:  Legislative Branch
• Article V:  Executive Branch
• Article VI:  Judicial Branch
• Article VII:  Local Government
• Article VIII:  Education
• Article IX:  Finance and Taxation
• Article X:  Property
• Article XI:  Public Officers and Employment
• Article XII:  Amendment and Revision
• Schedule and Temporary Provisions