Tennessee Constitution Article VIII - Militia.
Tennessee Constitution – Article VIII: Militia
Summary:
Article VIII of the Tennessee Constitution deals with the organization, regulation, and control of the militia—the body of citizens called upon for state defense and emergencies.
Key Provisions:
Militia Composition (Section 1):
The militia consists of all able-bodied citizens of the state, usually within certain age limits (commonly 18 to 45 years old).
Governor as Commander-in-Chief (Section 2):
The Governor is the Commander-in-Chief of the militia when it is called into service.
Organization and Discipline (Section 3):
The legislature has the authority to organize, arm, and discipline the militia according to laws consistent with the U.S. Constitution.
Calling the Militia into Service (Section 4):
The Governor can call out the militia to:
Suppress insurrections
Repel invasions
Execute the laws of the state
Military Officers and Elections (Section 5):
Procedures for appointing or electing militia officers are established by law.
Standing Armies Prohibited (Section 6):
A standing army cannot be maintained in peacetime without legislative approval.
Purpose:
Article VIII ensures the militia remains a citizen force under civilian control, ready to serve for the defense and enforcement of law within Tennessee, while balancing military necessity with civil liberties.
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