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 Mexico, the state constitution establishes the framework for state government, mirroring the federal structure by creating legislative, executive, and judicial branches. The New Mexico Legislature is bicameral, consisting of the House of Representatives and the Senate. The executive branch is headed by the Governor, and the judicial system is headed by the New Mexico Supreme Court. The New Mexico Constitution also delineates the powers of these branches and includes a Bill of Rights that protects the fundamental rights of its citizens. Regarding taxation, the constitution authorizes the state to impose taxes but also includes provisions that regulate the manner and extent of taxation. Education is a significant focus of the New Mexico Constitution, which mandates the state to provide a system of free public schools sufficient for the education of, and open to, all the children of school age in the state. This includes provisions for the establishment and maintenance of public schools, as well as the state's responsibility for educational funding.