3.2 Ohio's State and Local Governments Study Guide
Learning Target 18. Provide examples of how the 1851 Ohio Constitution addressed difficulties in governing Ohio at that time.
Under Ohio’s original constitution, the General Assembly was the preeminent branch of the government. Key judicial and executive officers, other than the governor, were appointed by the legislature and were not elected by the people of Ohio. The governor, although an elected official, had few specific powers. The Supreme Court, which was required to meet once each year in every county, found it difficult to meet its obligations. In addition the state was burdened with a significant amount of debt.
The Constitution of 1851 provided that major executive officials and all judges were to be elected by popular vote. While the powers of the governor were not significantly increased, legislative powers to enact retroactive laws were prohibited and all laws of a general nature were required to be uniform throughout the state. District courts were added to the court system to reduce the burdens upon the Supreme Court. The new constitution instituted debt limitations, banned poll taxes and required that tax funds be used only for their stated purpose.
The Constitution of 1851 provided that major executive officials and all judges were to be elected by popular vote. While the powers of the governor were not significantly increased, legislative powers to enact retroactive laws were prohibited and all laws of a general nature were required to be uniform throughout the state. District courts were added to the court system to reduce the burdens upon the Supreme Court. The new constitution instituted debt limitations, banned poll taxes and required that tax funds be used only for their stated purpose.
Learning Target 15. Determine how the Ohio Constitution complements the federal structure of government in the United States and compare the structures, powers and relationships between both levels of government as defined in the Constitution of Ohio and the Constitution of the U.S.
The government of the State of Ohio fits within the federal structure of government. The Ohio Constitution must be consistent with the basic principles outlined in the U.S. Constitution (Article VI). The Ohio Constitution outlines the powers and functions of state government and provides the context for local government in the state.
Learning Target 20. Identify and explain roles that Ohio’s citizens can play in helping state and local government address problems facing their communities.
Ohioans can assist government in addressing problems affecting the state and local communities. Involvement at the state level can range from paying taxes to serving in the National Guard, running for state office, voting and signing petitions to place issues on the ballot. Involvement at the local level can range from organizing civic activities to attending meetings of local boards and commissions, joining community watch groups, and serving in a volunteer fire department. By examining how Ohioans can assist government in addressing problems, opportunities are opened for students to engage in activities related to civic involvement identified earlier in the coursework.
