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Civil Rights
State constitutions guarantee equality, freedom from discrimination, fair treatment under the law, and a broad range of other civil rights. Issues that regularly crop up in state court include discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, national origin, sex, sexual orientation or identity, age, or disability, abuses of power by government actors, as well as the availability of monetary damages for such state constitutional violations.
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Washington Supreme Court to Hear Challenge to State Voting Rights Act
Oral argument is set for May 11 in a challenge under the 14th Amendment and state constitution.
The Racist History of State Constitutions Taking Voting Rights from People Convicted of Crimes
Two court decisions raise questions about whether modifying discriminatory provisions can wash away their dubious histories.
Ohio Supreme Court Hears Argument on Birth Certificate Changes for Transgender Ohioans
Justices raised questions about the court’s jurisdiction.
Washington Supreme Court Changes the Balance of Power Between Passengers and Police on Public Transit
In assessing policing tactics, the court considered racial disparities in the justice system.
Using State Constitutional Protections to Improve Life Behind Bars
Rulings in Oregon and Utah offer a road map for other state courts.