FORM OF GOVERNMENT.
The Constitution of the State of Idaho, like those of the other states in the Union, is modeled after the Constitution of the United States. It contains:
A Preamble, setting forth the purposes of the Constitution.
A Declaration, called the Bill of Rights, containing twenty-one sections.
Provision for dividing the powers of government into three departments.
Articles relating to taxation, suffrage, public schools, corporations, militia, immigration, labor, amendments, and other public affairs.
Preamble.—"We, the people of the State of Idaho, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom, to secure its blessings and promote our common welfare, do establish this constitution."
Declaration of Rights.—The Bill of Rights is a declaration of privileges retained by the people, which the departments of government are expressly prohibited from invading. The most important provisions in the Bill of Rights may be classed under the following headings: democratic principles; personal security; private property; freedom of religion, speech, and of the press; and security against military tyranny.
Democratic Principles.—All men are equal before the law, and are protected in the enjoyment of life, property, and the pursuit of happiness.
All power is inherent in the people.
Personal Security.—The people have the right to bear arms for their safety and defense, but this privilege is regulated by appropriate legislation.
The people shall be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and other possessions against unreasonable searches and seizures.
There shall be no imprisonment for debt except in cases of fraud.
Private Property.—Private property shall not be taken for public use except a necessity therefore exists, and then only after just compensation has been paid.
Religion.—The free exercise and enjoyment of religious faith and worship shall forever be guaranteed.
No religious test shall be required for holding public office.
Freedom of Speech and of the Press.—Every person may freely speak, write, and publish on any subject, but he is held responsible for the abuse of that liberty,
Freedom of Meeting.—The people shall have the right to assemble and consult for their common good, and may petition the Legislature for redress of grievances.
Security Against Military Tyranny.—Soldiers shall not be quartered in private houses in times of peace without the consent of the owner, nor in times of war except as the law may provide.
It will be seen from the above that the State government as well as the National is planned on the accepted fact that all power originates with the people. In America the people have the divine right to rule. The people possess all rights which they have not expressly given to the government. The Bill of Rights which we have discussed is therefore a double safeguard which the people have thrown about their sacred inalienable rights.