State constitution
Constitution of Arizona
Data from AZ Legislature
Full article structure with condensed section text. Article 6 (Judicial Department) gives its headline sections; later administrative judicial sections are abbreviated. A few short articles (3, 16, 19, 21, 27, 29) are rendered to their principal provisions. Read the complete, verbatim constitution at the source link.
Article Pr. Preamble
§ — Preamble
We the people of the State of Arizona, grateful to Almighty God for our liberties, do ordain this Constitution.
Article 1 State Boundaries
§ 1 Designation of boundaries
The boundaries of the State are those described in the enabling act of Congress, until changed by law.
§ 2 Alteration of state boundaries
The legislature may alter the boundaries with the consent of Congress and any affected state.
Article 2 Declaration of Rights
§ 1 Fundamental principles
A frequent recurrence to fundamental principles is essential to the security of individual rights and the perpetuity of free government.
§ 2 Political power; purpose of government
All political power is inherent in the people; government is instituted to protect and maintain individual rights.
§ 2.1 Victims' bill of rights
Crime victims have enumerated rights, including to be treated with fairness and dignity, to be present and heard at proceedings, and to receive restitution.
§ 3 Supreme law of the land
The Constitution of the United States is the supreme law of the land; the State reserves authority to act against unconstitutional federal action.
§ 4 Due process of law
No person shall be deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process of law.
§ 5 Right of petition and assembly
The right of the people to peaceably assemble and to petition for redress of grievances shall never be abridged.
§ 6 Freedom of speech and press
Every person may freely speak, write, and publish on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of that right.
§ 7 Oaths and affirmations
An oath or affirmation shall be administered in a form most binding on the conscience of the person taking it.
§ 8 Right to privacy
No person shall be disturbed in their private affairs, or their home invaded, without authority of law.
§ 9 Irrevocable grants prohibited
No law granting irrevocable privileges, franchises, or immunities shall be enacted.
§ 10 Self-incrimination; double jeopardy
No person shall be compelled to give evidence against themselves, nor be twice put in jeopardy for the same offense.
§ 11 Administration of justice
Justice shall be administered openly and without unnecessary delay.
§ 12 Liberty of conscience
Liberty of conscience is secured; no public money shall be appropriated for religious worship or instruction, and religious freedom shall not excuse acts against the peace or safety of the State.
§ 13 Equal privileges and immunities
No law shall grant to any citizen or class of citizens privileges or immunities not equally granted to all.
§ 14 Habeas corpus
The privilege of the writ of habeas corpus shall not be suspended except in case of rebellion or invasion when the public safety requires it.
§ 15 Excessive bail; cruel punishment
Excessive bail and fines and cruel and unusual punishments are prohibited.
§ 16 Corruption of blood; forfeiture
No conviction shall work corruption of blood or forfeiture of estate.
§ 17 Eminent domain
Private property shall not be taken for public use without just compensation; whether the use is public is a judicial question.
§ 18 Imprisonment for debt
There shall be no imprisonment for debt, except in cases of fraud.
§ 19 Bribery; illegal rebating
Any person offering or accepting a bribe shall be disqualified from office; witnesses may not refuse to testify on self-incrimination grounds but are granted immunity.
§ 20 Military subordinate to civil power
The military shall be in strict subordination to the civil power.
§ 21 Free and equal elections
All elections shall be free and equal, and no power shall interfere to prevent the free exercise of the right of suffrage.
§ 22 Bailable offenses
All persons are bailable except for capital offenses, certain serious felonies, and other cases specified where the proof is evident.
§ 23 Trial by jury
The right of trial by jury shall remain inviolate; the number of jurors may be set by law, with unanimity required in criminal cases.
§ 24 Rights of accused
In criminal prosecutions the accused has the right to counsel, to a speedy public trial by impartial jury, to be informed of the charge, to confront witnesses, and to compulsory process.
§ 25 Bills of attainder; ex post facto; contracts
No bill of attainder, ex post facto law, or law impairing the obligation of contracts shall be enacted.
§ 26 Bearing arms
The right of the individual to keep and bear arms in defense of self or the State shall not be impaired, but this does not authorize individuals or groups to maintain an armed body.
§ 27 Standing army; quartering soldiers
No standing army shall be kept in peacetime, and no soldier shall be quartered in any house without the owner's consent.
§ 28 Treason
Treason against the State consists only in levying war against it or adhering to its enemies.
§ 29 Hereditary emoluments; perpetuities
No hereditary emoluments, privileges, or powers shall be granted, and no perpetuities or entailments shall be allowed.
§ 30 Indictment or information
No person shall be prosecuted for a felony except on indictment or information, after a preliminary examination or its waiver.
§ 31 Damages for death or injury
No law shall limit the amount of damages recoverable for causing death or personal injury.
§ 32 Provisions mandatory
The provisions of this Constitution are mandatory unless expressly declared otherwise.
§ 33 Reservation of rights
The enumeration of rights shall not deny or disparage others retained by the people.
§ 34 Industrial pursuits by government
The State and its municipalities may engage in industrial pursuits.
§ 35 Actions by illegal aliens
A person present in the country unlawfully may not be awarded punitive damages in a state civil action.
§ 36 Preferential treatment prohibited
The State shall not grant preferential treatment to, or discriminate against, any individual or group based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin in public employment, education, or contracting.
§ 37 Right to secret ballot
The right to vote by secret ballot for employee representation is guaranteed.
Article 3 Distribution of Powers
§ 1 Distribution of powers
The powers of government are divided into legislative, executive, and judicial departments, and no one department may exercise the powers of another except as this Constitution provides.
Article 4 Legislative Department
§ P1.1 Legislative authority; initiative and referendum
The legislative authority is vested in the legislature, but the people reserve the power of the initiative to propose laws and the referendum to approve or reject legislation.
§ P1.2 Penalty for violating initiative and referendum provisions
The legislature shall provide penalties for fraud or violations affecting the initiative and referendum.
§ P2.1 Composition; independent redistricting commission
The legislature consists of a senate and a house of representatives; congressional and legislative districts are drawn by an independent redistricting commission.
§ P2.2 Qualifications of members
A legislator must be a citizen, at least twenty-five, and a resident of the State and district for the required period.
§ P2.3 Sessions of legislature
The legislature meets in annual regular session and in special sessions limited to designated subjects.
§ P2.4 Disqualification for membership
No person convicted of a felony or of certain offenses, until restored to civil rights, is eligible to the legislature.
§ P2.5 Ineligibility to other office
No legislator shall, during their term, be appointed to a civil office created or whose pay was increased during that term.
§ P2.6 Privilege from arrest
Legislators are privileged from arrest and civil process during the session and while traveling to and from it, except for serious crimes.
§ P2.7 Freedom of debate
Legislators shall not be questioned in any other place for words spoken in debate.
§ P2.8 Organization; rules of procedure
Each house chooses its officers, judges the qualifications of its members, and determines its own rules.
§ P2.9 Quorum; adjournment
A majority constitutes a quorum, but a smaller number may adjourn and compel attendance.
§ P2.10 Journal; roll call
Each house keeps a journal, and the yeas and nays are entered on demand of a required number of members.
§ P2.11 Disorderly behavior; expulsion
Each house may punish members for disorderly behavior and, with a two-thirds vote, expel a member.
§ P2.12 Procedure on bills; approval or veto
Every bill passed by the legislature is presented to the governor for approval or veto.
§ P2.13 Subject and title of bills
Every act shall embrace but one subject, expressed in its title.
§ P2.14 Legislation by reference prohibited
No act shall be revised or amended by mere reference to its title; the section revised or amended is re-enacted in full.
§ P2.15 Passage of bills; signing
A bill passes only on the vote of a majority of the members elected to each house, and passed bills are signed by the presiding officers.
§ P2.16 Right to protest
Any member may protest against an act and have the protest entered in the journal.
§ P2.17 Extra compensation prohibited
The legislature shall not grant extra compensation after service, nor change an officer's salary during their term.
§ P2.18 Suits against the state
The legislature shall direct how and in what courts suits may be brought against the State.
§ P2.19 Local or special laws
No local or special laws shall be enacted in enumerated cases where a general law can apply.
§ P2.20 Appropriation bills
The general appropriation bill embraces only appropriations for the ordinary expenses of government; other appropriations are by separate bills.
§ P2.21 Term limits
State legislators are limited to a set number of consecutive terms.
§ P2.22 Juvenile justice
Certain chronic or violent juvenile offenders may be prosecuted as adults, with community alternatives for others.
§ P2.23 Passes and transportation by officers
Public officers shall not accept free or discounted transportation, except for the national guard.
§ P2.24 Enacting clause
The enacting clause of every bill is prescribed, with a distinct form for initiative measures.
§ P2.25 Continuity of government in emergency
The legislature may provide for continuity of governmental operations in a period of emergency caused by enemy attack.
Article 5 Executive Department
§ 1 State officers; terms; election
The executive department consists of the governor, secretary of state, attorney general, treasurer, and superintendent of public instruction, elected to terms of four years.
§ 2 Eligibility to state offices
A state officer must be at least twenty-five, a citizen for ten years, and a resident of the State for five years before election.
§ 3 Commander-in-chief
The governor is commander-in-chief of the military forces of the State, except when they are called into federal service.
§ 4 Powers and duties; special sessions
The governor sees that the laws are faithfully executed, may convene special sessions, and reports to the legislature with recommendations.
§ 5 Reprieves, commutations, pardons
The governor may grant reprieves, commutations, and pardons after conviction, subject to conditions set by law.
§ 6 Succession to the governorship
On the governor's death, resignation, removal, or disability, the secretary of state, then other officers in order, succeeds to the office.
§ 7 Presentation of bills; veto
Bills are presented to the governor, who may approve, veto, or line-item veto appropriation items; the legislature may override by a two-thirds or three-fourths vote.
§ 8 Vacancies in office
The governor fills vacancies in office by appointment unless otherwise provided.
§ 9 Powers and duties of state officers
The duties of the other state executive officers are prescribed by law.
§ 10 Canvass of election returns
The returns of elections for state officers are canvassed and certificates of election issued as provided.
§ 11 Commissions
Commissions are issued in the name of the State and signed by the governor.
§ 12 Compensation of elective officers
The compensation of elective state officers is set on the recommendation of a salary commission.
Article 6 Judicial Department
§ 1 Judicial power; courts
The judicial power is vested in a supreme court, a court of appeals, superior courts, justice courts, and courts inferior to the superior court as provided by law.
§ 2 Supreme court; composition
The supreme court consists of the chief justice and associate justices as provided by law, and may sit in divisions.
§ 3 Administrative supervision; chief justice
The supreme court has administrative supervision over all courts, and the chief justice is the executive head of the judicial system.
§ 4 Term of office
Supreme court justices hold office for regular terms subject to retention by the voters.
§ 5 Jurisdiction; writs; rules
The supreme court has original and appellate jurisdiction as provided, may issue extraordinary writs, and makes rules of procedure for all courts.
§ 6 Qualifications of justices
A justice or judge of a court of record must be admitted to practice law and meet age and residency requirements.
§ 9 Intermediate appellate courts
The legislature may establish courts of appeals with the jurisdiction and organization it provides.
§ 10 Superior court; number of judges
The superior court has the number of judges in each county provided by law.
§ 13 Superior court; composition
The superior court is a single court composed of the judges in the several counties, with uniform jurisdiction.
§ 14 Original jurisdiction
The superior court has original jurisdiction over criminal felonies, civil cases above a set amount, equity, probate, and other enumerated matters.
§ 15 Juvenile proceedings
The superior court has jurisdiction in juvenile proceedings as provided.
§ 20 Retired justices and judges
Retired justices and judges may be assigned to temporary judicial service.
§ 22 Qualifications of judges
Superior and appellate court judges must be admitted to practice and meet residency requirements.
§ 28 Dual office holding; political activity
Justices and judges may not hold other public office, engage in prohibited political activity, or practice law.
§ 30 Courts of record
The supreme court, court of appeals, and superior court are courts of record.
§ 32 Justices of the peace; inferior courts
Justice courts and other inferior courts have the jurisdiction, powers, terms, and salaries provided by law.
§ 36 Commission on appellate court appointments
A commission on appellate (and county) court appointments nominates candidates for merit-selection judicial appointments.
§ 37 Judicial vacancies and appointments
The governor fills judicial vacancies in merit-selection courts from the commission's nominees; the appointees then stand for retention.
Article 6.1 Commission on Judicial Conduct
§ 1 Commission on judicial conduct
A commission on judicial conduct investigates complaints against judges and may recommend to the supreme court their censure, suspension, removal, or retirement for misconduct or disability.
Article 7 Suffrage and Elections
§ 1 Method of voting; secrecy
All elections by the people shall be by ballot or by other method that secures secrecy in voting.
§ 2 Qualifications of voters
A citizen at least eighteen who has met the residency and registration requirements is a qualified elector; persons convicted of felonies or adjudicated incompetent may be disqualified.
§ 3 Voting residence
The voting residence of federal employees and others is fixed by rules stated in this section.
§ 4 Privilege from arrest
Electors are privileged from arrest while attending, going to, and returning from elections, except for serious crimes.
§ 5 Military duty on election day
No elector shall be obliged to perform militia or other military duty on election day, except in war or emergency.
§ 6 Residence of military personnel
Being stationed in the State on military duty does not by itself confer or remove voting residence.
§ 7 Highest number of votes
The person receiving the highest number of legal votes is declared elected.
§ 8 Voters at school elections
The legislature may prescribe qualifications for voting at school elections.
§ 9 Advisory vote
Provision is made for advisory votes of the people on public questions.
§ 10 Direct primary election law
The legislature shall enact a direct primary election law.
§ 11 General elections; date
General elections are held on the date fixed by law.
§ 12 Registration and other laws
The legislature shall enact registration and election laws to secure the purity of elections and guard against abuses.
§ 13 Bond and assessment questions
Questions on bond issues or special assessments are submitted only to affected property taxpayers as provided.
§ 14 Fee for placing name on ballot
The legislature may set a fee, or petition alternative, for placing a candidate's name on the ballot.
§ 15 Qualifications for public office
A candidate for public office must be a qualified elector and meet age and residency requirements.
§ 16 Campaign contributions; publicity
The legislature shall enact laws for the publicity of campaign contributions and expenditures.
§ 17 Vacancy in Congress
Vacancies in the State's congressional delegation are filled by election as provided.
§ 18 Term limits on ballot appearances
Limits are placed on the number of times a congressional candidate's name may appear on the ballot (of limited effect after federal rulings).
Article 8 Removal from Office
§ P1.1 Officers subject to recall
Every holder of an elective office is subject to recall by the qualified electors of the electoral district.
§ P1.2 Recall petitions; contents
A recall is initiated by a petition stating the grounds and signed by the required number of electors.
§ P1.3 Resignation; special election
The officer may resign; otherwise a recall election is ordered.
§ P1.4 Special election; results
At the recall election the officer is opposed by other candidates, and the one receiving the highest vote is elected.
§ P1.5 Restrictions and conditions
No recall petition may be filed against an officer until they have held office for a set time, and only once per term unless costs are paid.
§ P1.6 Application of general election laws
The general election laws apply to recall elections, and the legislature may provide implementing legislation.
§ P2.1 Impeachment power
The house of representatives has the sole power of impeachment, and the senate tries all impeachments.
§ P2.2 Conviction; grounds; judgment
Officers may be impeached for high crimes, misdemeanors, or malfeasance; conviction requires a two-thirds vote and removes and disqualifies the officer, who remains liable to trial at law.
Article 9 Public Debt, Revenue, and Taxation
§ 1 Uniformity of taxes
The power of taxation shall never be surrendered; all taxes shall be uniform upon the same class of property.
§ 2 Property subject to taxation; exemptions
All property is subject to taxation, except property of the government and property used for religious, charitable, educational, and other exempt purposes.
§ 3 Annual tax; payment into treasury
The legislature provides annually for a tax sufficient to meet appropriations, and all taxes are paid into the state treasury.
§ 4 Fiscal year; deficit
The legislature provides for a fiscal year, an annual statement of receipts and expenditures, and against a deficit.
§ 5 Power to contract debts; limit
State debt for general purposes may not exceed a small fixed amount, except to repel invasion or suppress insurrection.
§ 6 Local assessments and taxes
Incorporated cities, towns, and counties may assess and collect taxes for local purposes as provided by law.
§ 7 Gift or loan of credit prohibited
The State and its subdivisions may not give or loan their credit to, or make donations to, any individual, company, or corporation.
§ 8 Local debt limits
Counties, cities, towns, and districts may incur debt only with the assent of a majority of taxpayers voting, within stated percentage limits.
§ 8.1 Unified school district debt limit
A separate debt limit applies to unified school districts.
§ 9 Statement of tax and objects
Every law imposing a tax shall state distinctly the object of the tax.
§ 10 Aid to church or private school
No public money shall be appropriated in aid of any church, private or sectarian school, or public service corporation.
§ 11 Taxing procedure; vehicle license tax
Property is valued and taxed by prescribed procedures, and a license tax may be imposed on registered vehicles in lieu of property tax.
§ 12 Levy and collection of taxes
The legislature provides by law for the levy and collection of license and other taxes.
§ 12.1 Temporary taxes (repealed)
A temporary sales tax increase adopted by initiative expired by its own terms after May 31, 2013.
§ 13 Exemption of manufacturers' inventory and livestock
The inventory and materials of manufacturers and production livestock are exempt from ad valorem taxation.
§ 14 Use of vehicle and fuel tax receipts
Receipts from vehicle, user, gasoline, and diesel taxes are used solely for highway and street purposes.
§ 15 License tax on aircraft
A license tax may be imposed on aircraft in lieu of ad valorem taxes.
§ 16 Exemption of watercraft
Watercraft may be exempted from ad valorem property taxes in favor of a license tax.
§ 17 Appropriation limitation
The economic estimates commission determines the limit on state appropriations tied to personal income.
§ 18 Residential property tax limits
Limits are placed on residential ad valorem taxes and on annual increases in property valuation.
§ 19 Limit on local levy increases
Annual increases in local ad valorem tax levies are limited, with stated exceptions.
§ 20 State expenditure limitation
State expenditures are limited by a formula, with adjustments and reporting requirements.
§ 21 School and college expenditure limits
Expenditure limitations apply to school districts and community college districts.
§ 22 Vote required to raise revenue
Any act that increases state revenues requires a two-thirds vote of each house, with exceptions.
§ 23 Voter-mandated spending; funding source
An initiative or referendum that mandates spending must identify an increased revenue source to fund it.
§ 24 No new real property transfer tax
No new tax on the sale or transfer of real property may be imposed.
§ 25 No new or increased tax on services
No new or increased tax on services performed in the State may be imposed after 2017.
Article 10 State and School Lands
§ 1 Lands held in trust
Lands granted to the State by the United States are accepted and held in trust for the designated beneficiaries.
§ 2 Unauthorized disposition a breach of trust
Any disposition of trust land or its proceeds not in substantial conformity with the enabling act is a breach of trust.
§ 3 Sale or lease at public auction
Trust land may be mortgaged, sold, or leased only at public auction after appraisal and notice.
§ 4 Appraisal; minimum price
Trust land is sold or leased only for its true value, at not less than the appraised minimum price.
§ 5 Minimum price; relinquishment to United States
The minimum price is fixed, and land may be relinquished to the United States for exchange purposes.
§ 6 Water power reservations
Lands reserved by the United States for water power development are subject to those reservations.
§ 7 Permanent funds
Proceeds of trust lands are held in permanent funds, invested and distributed for the benefit of the designated institutions.
§ 8 Conformity with enabling act
All contracts and dispositions of trust land must conform to the enabling act.
§ 9 Conditions and limitations on sale or lease
Sales and leases are subject to the conditions and limitations set by this article and by law.
§ 10 Protection of residents and lessees
Laws for the sale or lease of state lands protect resident purchasers and lessees.
§ 11 Maximum acreage to a single purchaser
The acreage that may be sold or leased to a single purchaser is limited.
§ 12 Land exchanges
State land may be exchanged following notice, hearings, and, in specified cases, approval by the voters.
Article 11 Education
§ 1 Public school system
The legislature shall establish and maintain a general and uniform public school system, including provision for pupils who are hearing or vision impaired.
§ 2 Supervision of school system
The conduct and supervision of the public school system is vested in the officers and boards provided by this article and by law.
§ 3 State board of education
A state board of education exercises the general supervisory and regulatory powers over the school system provided by law.
§ 4 Superintendent of public instruction
The superintendent of public instruction is a member of the board and exercises the powers and duties provided by law.
§ 5 Governing boards; regents
The governor appoints the members of the university and college governing boards, and is a member of the board of regents.
§ 6 Admission of both sexes; tuition; common schools
State universities and schools are open to students of both sexes; instruction in the common schools is as nearly free as possible.
§ 7 Sectarian instruction; no religious test
No sectarian instruction shall be given in the public schools, and no religious or political test shall be required of teachers or pupils.
§ 8 Permanent state school fund
A permanent state school fund is created from designated sources, and its income is apportioned to the schools.
§ 9 County school fund
Each county maintains a school fund to support free schools.
§ 10 Revenue for educational institutions
The legislature provides revenue for the maintenance of the state educational institutions.
§ 11 Inflation adjustments to school funding
The legislature shall make annual inflation adjustments to base school funding, with stated exceptions.
Article 12 Counties
§ 1 Counties as bodies corporate
Each county is a body politic and corporate.
§ 2 Existing counties continued
The counties of the former territory become counties of the State.
§ 3 County officers; election; term
County officers are elected as provided by law for terms of four years.
§ 4 County officers; duties; salaries
The duties, powers, qualifications, and salaries of county officers are prescribed by law.
§ 5 Charter committee; charter approval
A county may prepare a home rule charter through a charter committee, subject to approval by the voters.
§ 6 Amendment of charter
A county charter may be amended by the voters as provided.
§ 7 County charter provisions
A county charter may provide for the county's form of government and the exercise of its powers.
§ 8 Government and other powers
A charter county exercises the powers granted by its charter and by law.
§ 9 Self-executing provision
The county home rule provisions are self-executing.
Article 13 Municipal Corporations
§ 1 Incorporation; classification
Municipal corporations are formed and classified under general laws.
§ 2 Charter; preparation and approval
A city of over a set population may frame a home rule charter through a board of freeholders, subject to voter ratification and gubernatorial approval.
§ 3 Election of board of freeholders
The board of freeholders that drafts a charter is elected by the city's voters.
§ 4 Franchises; approval of electors
Municipal franchises require approval of the electors and are limited in term.
§ 5 Municipal business enterprises
A municipal corporation may engage in a business or enterprise and issue revenue bonds for it.
§ 6 Franchises; restrictions
Restrictions are placed on the granting of municipal franchises.
§ 7 Irrigation and other districts
Irrigation, power, electrical, agricultural improvement, drainage, and flood control districts are political subdivisions of the State.
Article 14 Corporations Other Than Municipal
§ 1 Corporation defined; suability
The term corporation includes associations having corporate powers, and corporations may sue and be sued.
§ 2 Formation under general laws
Corporations are formed under general laws, which the legislature may alter and repeal.
§ 3 Existing charters
Charters existing at statehood remain subject to the Constitution and laws.
§ 4 Restriction to authorized business
A corporation may transact only the business authorized by its charter or by law.
§ 5 Foreign corporations
Foreign corporations may transact business only on compliance with the laws of the State.
§ 6 Stocks and bonds
Corporations may issue stock and bonds only for money, labor, or property actually received.
§ 7 Lease or alienation of franchise
A corporation may not lease or alienate a franchise so as to relieve it of its obligations.
§ 8 Articles; agent for service of process
A corporation files articles of incorporation, maintains a place of business and an agent for service of process, and is subject to venue where it operates.
§ 9 Eminent domain over corporate property
The property and franchises of a corporation may be taken for public use.
§ 10 Elections for directors
Corporate directors or managers are chosen by the stockholders as provided.
§ 11 Liability of stockholders
The liability of stockholders is fixed by law.
§ 12 Officers of banks; responsibility
Officers of banking institutions are individually responsible for deposits received while the bank is insolvent.
§ 13 Want of legal organization as defense
The want of legal organization is not a defense available to a corporation sued on its contracts.
§ 14 Power to impose conditions
The legislature may impose conditions on corporations doing business in the State.
§ 15 Monopolies and trusts
Monopolies and trusts shall never be allowed, and the legislature shall enact laws to prevent them.
§ 16 Records; visitorial powers of state
The State retains visitorial and inquisitorial power over corporate records, books, and files.
§ 17 Fees; reports; foreign corporations
The legislature provides for fees, reports, and the licensing of foreign corporations.
§ 18 Contributions to influence elections
Corporations are prohibited from contributing to influence elections or official action, as regulated by law.
§ 19 Penalties for violation
The legislature provides penalties for violations of this article.
Article 15 The Corporation Commission
§ 1 Composition; election; term limits
The corporation commission consists of members elected by the people to staggered terms, subject to term limits and qualification requirements.
§ 2 Public service corporations defined
The term public service corporation includes utilities, transportation, transmission, and similar corporations serving the public.
§ 3 Power over rates, rules, and accounts
The commission prescribes classifications, rates, charges, rules, and accounting for public service corporations.
§ 4 Power to inspect and investigate
The commission may inspect the books and investigate the affairs of public service corporations.
§ 5 Certificates and licenses
The commission issues certificates of incorporation and licenses as provided.
§ 6 Enlargement of powers
The legislature may enlarge the powers and duties of the commission and provide rules and regulations.
§ 7 Connecting lines
Connecting and intersecting transportation and communication lines are regulated by the commission.
§ 8 Transportation by connecting carriers
Connecting carriers must transport passengers and freight over their lines.
§ 9 Transmission by connecting carriers
Connecting carriers must transmit messages over their lines.
§ 10 Railways as public highways
Railways are public highways and railroad and other companies are common carriers subject to control.
§ 11 Movable property as personal property
Movable property of public service corporations is personal property subject to attachment, execution, and sale.
§ 12 Charges; discrimination
Charges for service must be just, and unjust discrimination and free or reduced-rate transportation are prohibited.
§ 13 Reports to commission
Public service corporations make the reports the commission requires.
§ 14 Valuation of property
The commission ascertains the value of the property of public service corporations.
§ 15 Acceptance by existing corporations
Existing corporations that continue to do business are deemed to accept these constitutional provisions.
§ 16 Forfeitures
The commission may declare forfeitures for violations.
§ 17 Appeal to courts
An appeal lies to the courts from orders of the commission.
§ 19 Power to impose fines
The commission may impose fines for violations of its lawful orders.
Article 16 Militia
§ 1 Militia; persons subject
The militia consists of all able-bodied citizens of the State within the ages fixed by law, except those exempted.
§ 2 Organization; discipline
The legislature provides by law for the organization, equipment, and discipline of the militia in conformity with federal law.
§ 3 Exemptions
Persons with conscientious scruples against bearing arms are exempt from militia duty on the conditions set by law.
§ 4 Commissioned officers
Militia officers are commissioned by the governor as commander-in-chief.
Article 17 Water Rights
§ 1 Riparian water rights
The common law doctrine of riparian water rights shall not obtain or be of any force in the State.
§ 2 Recognition of existing rights
Existing rights to the use of water for beneficial purposes are recognized and confirmed.
Article 18 Labor
§ 1 Eight-hour day
Eight hours constitute a lawful day's work on public works, and no more may be required except in emergencies.
§ 2 Child labor
The employment of children under fourteen in specified occupations is prohibited.
§ 3 Contractual immunity void
An agreement by an employee to waive the employer's liability for negligence is void.
§ 4 Fellow servant doctrine
The fellow servant doctrine is abrogated as to the enumerated employments.
§ 5 Contributory negligence; assumption of risk
The defenses of contributory negligence and assumption of risk are questions of fact for the jury.
§ 6 Recovery of damages for injuries
The right of action to recover damages for injuries shall not be abrogated, and the amount recoverable shall not be limited.
§ 7 Employer's liability law
The legislature shall enact an employer's liability law for occupational injuries.
§ 8 Workmen's compensation law
The legislature shall enact a workmen's compensation law providing compensation for work-related injuries.
§ 9 Blacklists
The blacklisting of discharged employees is prohibited.
§ 10 Employment of aliens
The employment of persons not qualified electors may be regulated as provided by law.
Article 19 Mines
§ 1 Inspection of mines
The legislature shall enact laws requiring the inspection of mines and providing for the health and safety of persons employed in them.
Article 20 Ordinance
§ 1 Toleration of religious sentiment
Perfect toleration of religious sentiment is secured, and no inhabitant shall be molested on account of religious worship.
§ 2 Polygamy
Polygamous or plural marriages are forever prohibited.
§ 3 Intoxicating liquors in Indian country
The introduction of intoxicating liquors into Indian country is prohibited as provided.
§ 4 Public lands; Indian lands
The people disclaim all right and title to unappropriated public lands and to Indian lands, which remain under federal jurisdiction.
§ 5 Taxation
Federal property and certain Indian lands are exempt from state taxation, and residents of other states are taxed no higher than residents.
§ 6 Territorial debts and liabilities
The State assumes the debts and liabilities of the former territory.
§ 7 Public school system; suffrage
The State shall maintain a public school system free from sectarian control and open to all children, and provide for suffrage.
§ 8 English language
Public schools shall always be conducted in English.
§ 9 Location of state capital
The seat of government is fixed and may not be changed except as provided.
§ 12 Lands granted to state
Lands granted by the United States are held and disposed of consistent with the enabling act.
§ 13 Ordinance as part of constitution
This ordinance is an irrevocable part of the Constitution and may be amended only with the consent of the United States.
Article 21 Mode of Amending
§ 1 Amendments by legislature or initiative
Amendments may be proposed by either house of the legislature or by initiative petition, and take effect if approved by a majority of the voters.
§ 2 Constitutional convention
The legislature may submit to the voters the question of calling a constitutional convention, whose proposals take effect only if ratified by the people.
Article 22 Schedule and Miscellaneous
§ 1 Existing rights and proceedings
Existing rights, actions, contracts, and claims continue unaffected by the change from territory to state.
§ 2 Territorial laws
The laws of the territory not repugnant to the Constitution remain in force until altered or repealed.
§ 3 Debts, fines, and forfeitures
Debts, fines, penalties, and forfeitures owed to the territory pass to the State.
§ 4 Recognizances; bonds; judgments
Recognizances, bonds, estates, judgments, and choses in action remain valid.
§ 5 Criminal prosecutions
Pending criminal prosecutions and penal actions continue under the new government.
§ 6 Territorial and county officers
Territorial, district, county, and precinct officers continue until superseded under the Constitution.
§ 7 Causes pending in district courts
Cases pending in the territorial district courts pass to the superior courts with their records and property.
§ 8 Probate records
Probate records and proceedings pass to the superior courts.
§ 9 Causes pending in supreme court
Cases pending in the territorial supreme court pass to the state supreme court with their records.
§ 10 Seals
The seals of the courts, municipalities, and county officers continue in use until changed.
§ 11 Effective date of constitution
The Constitution takes effect upon the admission of the State into the Union.
§ 12 Election of representative in congress
Provision is made for the first election of the State's representative in Congress.
§ 13 Continuation in office
Officers continue in office until their successors qualify.
§ 14 Initiative
The initiative and referendum powers apply from the effective date of the Constitution.
§ 15 Public institutions
The territorial public institutions become institutions of the State.
§ 16 Confinement of minor offenders
Minor offenders shall be confined separately from adult felons.
§ 17 Compensation of public officers
The compensation of public officers is fixed as provided until changed by law.
§ 18 Nomination of incumbents to other offices
Restrictions apply to incumbents seeking nomination to other offices.
§ 19 Lobbying
The legislature shall enact laws to regulate and restrain lobbying and to prohibit corrupt practices.
§ 20 Design of state seal
The design of the great seal of the State is prescribed.
§ 21 Enactment of implementing laws
The legislature shall enact all laws necessary to carry the Constitution into effect.
§ 22 Judgments of death
The manner of carrying out judgments of death is prescribed.
Article 25 Right to Work
§ 1 Right to work
No person shall be denied the opportunity to obtain or retain employment because of membership or non-membership in a labor organization.
Article 26 Right of Real Estate Licensees to Prepare Instruments
§ 1 Preparation of instruments
A licensed real estate broker or salesperson may draft the instruments incident to a real estate transaction they handle.
Article 27 Regulation of Public Health, Safety and Welfare
§ 1 Regulation authorized
The legislature and municipalities may enact reasonable laws and regulations in the interest of the public health, safety, and welfare, including licensing and inspection requirements.
Article 28 English as the Official Language
§ 1 Definitions
This article defines the terms used, including official actions and the entities subject to the English-language requirement.
§ 2 Official language of Arizona
English is the official language of the State of Arizona.
§ 3 Preserving the role of the official language
Official actions of government are conducted in English, subject to stated exceptions.
§ 4 Official actions in English
Government officials and employees perform official actions in English, with exceptions to protect rights and public safety.
§ 5 Rules of construction
This article does not prohibit the use of other languages where necessary to protect rights or serve compelling interests.
§ 6 Standing; enforcement
A person may sue to enforce this article after notifying the attorney general, and may recover costs.
Article 29 Public Retirement Systems
§ 1 Public retirement systems
Public retirement system benefits are a contractual obligation that shall not be diminished or impaired, and the systems must be funded on an actuarially sound basis.
Article 30 Marriage
§ 1 Marriage
Only a union of one man and one woman is valid or recognized as a marriage in the State (adopted 2008; superseded as to enforceability by federal law but retained in the text).
Full, verbatim text at AZ Legislature