Missouri Constitution Article I - Bill of Rights
Missouri Constitution – Article I: Bill of Rights – Summary
📜 Overview:
Article I of the Missouri Constitution is the Bill of Rights, which lays out the fundamental rights and liberties guaranteed to all people in the state. It closely parallels the U.S. Bill of Rights but also includes provisions unique to Missouri.
🧭 Key Sections & Highlights:
Section 1 – Source of Political Power
All political power is vested in the people. Government exists to protect their rights.
Section 2 – Promotion of General Welfare
Government is instituted for the people’s good, and any power exercised must benefit all citizens.
Section 4 – Religious Freedom
Guarantees freedom of worship and prohibits discrimination based on religion.
No one can be forced to support or participate in any religious activity.
Section 7 – Public Aid for Religious Purposes
No public money can be used to aid religious institutions — reflects the state’s strict separation of church and state.
Section 8 – Freedom of Speech and Press
Strong protection of free expression; people have the right to speak and publish freely.
Section 9 – Right to Assemble and Petition
Citizens can gather peacefully and petition the government.
Section 10 – Due Process of Law
No person can be deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process.
Section 15 – Unreasonable Searches and Seizures
Protects against illegal searches; warrants must be based on probable cause.
Section 16 – Rights of Accused in Criminal Prosecutions
Guarantees a fair trial, the right to counsel, and to confront witnesses.
Section 18(a) – Right Against Self-Incrimination
No person shall be compelled to testify against themselves.
Section 19 – Double Jeopardy
Protects against being tried twice for the same offense.
Section 22(a) – Right to Trial by Jury
Ensures the right to a jury trial in criminal and civil cases.
Section 23 – Right to Keep and Bear Arms
Protects the individual’s right to possess firearms.
Section 29 – Right to Organize and Bargain Collectively
Workers have the right to unionize and engage in collective bargaining.
Section 32 – Crime Victims' Rights
Victims of crime have certain rights, including being informed and heard in criminal proceedings.
✅ Purpose:
Article I serves as Missouri’s foundational civil liberties document, protecting individuals from government overreach and ensuring personal freedoms, equal treatment, and justice under the law.
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