Louisiana Constitution ARTICLE I. DECLARATION OF RIGHTS
Louisiana Constitution – Article I: Declaration of Rights
Article I of the Louisiana Constitution is the Declaration of Rights, which outlines the fundamental rights and freedoms guaranteed to all individuals within the state. It is similar to the Bill of Rights in the U.S. Constitution but may include additional or differently worded protections specific to Louisiana.
Key Provisions in Article I Include:
Section 1 – Origin and Purpose of Government
Government is instituted to secure rights for the people, who have the right to alter or abolish it if it becomes destructive.
Section 2 – Due Process of Law
No person shall be deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process of law.
Section 3 – Right to Individual Dignity
Prohibits slavery and involuntary servitude except as punishment for crime. Guarantees equal protection under the law.
Section 4 – Right to Property
Protects private property rights and regulates the taking of property by the state under eminent domain (including recent reforms to limit abuse).
Section 5 – Right to Privacy
Explicitly guarantees the right to be free from government intrusion in private affairs unless legally justified.
Section 7 – Freedom of Expression
Ensures freedom of speech, press, and expression, subject to certain limitations (e.g., defamation, inciting violence).
Section 8 – Freedom of Religion
Guarantees the free exercise of religion and prohibits laws establishing religion.
Section 11 – Right to Keep and Bear Arms
Strong protection of individual gun rights, subject to reasonable regulation.
Section 13 – Rights of the Accused
Includes the right to a fair trial, legal counsel, and protection against self-incrimination and double jeopardy.
Section 16 – Right to Bail
Entitles individuals to reasonable bail, except in certain capital cases.
Section 20 – Freedom from Discrimination
Prohibits discrimination based on race, religion, or political beliefs.
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