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Government Structure
State constitutions vary in how they structure state governments and distribute power among the branches of government and between the state and localities. State governments include statewide executive, legislative, and judicial branches, but also multiple county, district, municipal, and local governments.
Home rule disputes between states and localities, separation of powers among the branches of government, the limits of executive power, jurisdiction of courts, and limits on legislative authority all regularly give rise to litigation.
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The Latest Legal Challenge to Reform-Minded Prosecutors
Pennsylvania's Supreme Court will consider whether state legislatures can remove a local law enforcement official.
The Major Questions Doctrine in the States
State courts should hesitate before adopting the federal major questions doctrine under state law.
Judicial Advisory Opinions Explained
State and federal courts differ not just in the substantive rights they recognize but also in how they define judicial power.
Ohio Supreme Court Hears Challenge to Pause of Abortion Ban
As Ohioans prepare to vote on an abortion ballot measure this fall, the state is asking to reinstate a six-week ban that was put on hold by a trial court.
Fifty Unique, Ever-Changing State Constitutions
A new resource from the State Democracy Research Initiative makes the current text of all 50 state constitutions available and searchable on one site.
New Mexico Supreme Court Adopts New Separation-of-Powers Approach to Disbursing Federal Funds
A recent decision could have a significant impact on how, and how fast, federal money is used to help people in the state.
Constitutional Amendment Processes in the 50 States
States offer multiple paths for amending their constitutions, which are much easier to change than the federal Constitution.
Voters Amend State Constitutions Around the Country
Ohio enshrined a right to abortion in the state constitution.