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 Oklahoma, the state constitution establishes the framework for state government, mirroring the federal structure by creating legislative, executive, and judicial branches. The Oklahoma Legislature is bicameral, consisting of the Senate and the House of Representatives. The executive branch is headed by the Governor, while the judicial system is composed of various courts, including the Oklahoma Supreme Court. The Oklahoma Constitution delineates the powers and responsibilities of these branches and includes provisions to protect the rights of its citizens. Additionally, the constitution contains specific provisions regarding taxation, limiting the ways in which the state can impose taxes. It also mandates the provision of public education, ensuring that the state maintains a system of public schools to educate its residents. Amendments to the state constitution can be proposed either by the legislature or through a citizen-initiated petition process and require approval by a majority of voters in a state election to be adopted.