What are the limits of federal power under the US Constitution?

Under the United States Constitution, federal power is limited in several ways. The federal government’s authority only extends to matters under the enumerated powers, meaning specifically those powers delegated to the federal government by the Constitution. In addition, the Tenth Amendment reserves all powers not expressly delegated to the federal government for the states and the people. This means that any action taken by the federal government must be authorized by the Constitution and delegated to them by the states. The Constitution also protects the rights of individuals from federal intrusion. For example, the Fourth Amendment guarantees individuals the right to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures. The Fifth Amendment protects individuals against self-incrimination, double jeopardy, and deprivation of life, liberty, and property without due process of law. Finally, the Fourteenth Amendment prohibits the federal government from depriving any person of their due process and equal protection under the law. These limits on federal power also extend to the state governments. Each state has its own constitution, bill of rights, and laws which outline the authority of the state government. These same rights and limits on power that protect the individual from the federal government also protect the individual from state government intrusion. In conclusion, the United States Constitution limits the federal power of the federal government and the states by reserving certain powers to the states and protecting the individual rights of citizens.

Related FAQs

What are the rights of the states under the US Constitution?
What is the impact of the Fourteenth Amendment on the rights of individuals?
How has the Supreme Court interpreted the equal protection clause of the US Constitution?
What is the purpose of the Bill of Rights?
What is the scope of the takings clause of the Fifth Amendment?
What is the difference between constitutional and statutory law?
What is the scope of the due process clause of the Fifth Amendment?
What does the Fourteenth Amendment guarantee?
What are the rights of individuals under the Tenth Amendment?
What is the scope of the due process clause of the US Constitution?

What are the limits of federal power under the US Constitution?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts