Each state has its own constitution, which generally creates the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of state government; defines and limits the powers of these branches; and identifies fundamental rights of its citizens. A state’s constitution often defines and limits the state’s power to tax its citizens, and provides for the education of its citizens through public schools.
In New Jersey, the state constitution serves as the supreme law of the state, establishing the framework for state government and delineating the powers and responsibilities of its legislative, executive, and judicial branches. The New Jersey Constitution outlines the structure of the state legislature (the Senate and General Assembly), the powers of the Governor, and the organization of the state's court system. It also includes a Bill of Rights that protects the fundamental rights of New Jersey citizens. Additionally, the constitution contains provisions that regulate the state's authority to impose taxes and mandates the state to provide for the education of its citizens through a system of free public schools. The New Jersey Constitution can be amended through a process that typically involves approval by the state legislature and ratification by the voters.