Why was the Tool developed?
The State Constitution Tool was developed by lawyers and scholars with expertise in constitutional law. They share a desire to equip other lawyers and the general public with the ability to identify, analyze, and compare different constitutions by topic.
Other research tools and commentaries categorize constitutions according to the author’s interests and opinions. The State Constitution Tool is unique because it allows users to draw their own comparisons directly from the source – the text of constitutions.
How was the Tool developed?
To compile the constitutional clauses available on the Tool, experts reviewed the constitutions for all 50 states and the U.S. Constitution. The clauses they found for each topic were peer reviewed to ensure accuracy and comprehensiveness.
The Find and Compare Text functions were built by web developers. Developers used standard best practices and AI to allow user-directed word searches and comparisons of constitutional text.
What happens when a constitution is amended?
The State Constitution Tool is updated periodically as constitutions are amended. In addition, new topics are added periodically. To alert us to an update or suggest a new topic, or to report a bug, tell us here.
How do I use the Tool?
For step-by-step instructions and detailed features of the State Constitution Tool, click here.
The State Constitution Tool is a project of American Juris Link, a nonpartisan and nonprofit organization that collects and shares information for constitutional lawyers and scholars. The Tool was funded through donations and grants, as well as pro bono research contributions from lawyers. To support the maintenance and expansion of the Tool, donate here.