INTRODUCTION

This two-volume analysis of the provisions of the Michigan constitution is the first of three major series of publications to be issued by the Citizens Research Council marking the occasion of the Michigan Constitutional Convention of 1961.

The publication at hand is designed to trace the history of the present state constitution and to compare its provisions with prior documents, with the constitutions of the other states, and with the Model State Constitution of the National Municipal League.

It is not the purpose of this publication to attempt to tell anyone how to change the present constitution. Rather, it is hoped that it will serve to indicate the evolution of the Michigan constitution, to delineate present meaning or interpretation of its provisions, and to draw attention to the significant alternative methods of handling particular subjects as included in constitutions of other states or as contemplated by recognized authorities in state constitutional law.

Chapter I, Boundaries and Seat of Government (5 pages) 

Chapter II, Declaration of Rights (40 pages) 

Chapter III, Elective Franchise (19 pages) 

Chapter IV, Separation of Powers (3 pages)

Chapter V, Legislative Department (114 pages) 

Chapter VI, Executive Department (84 pages) 

Chapter VII, Judicial Department (43 pages)