The Necessary and Proper Clause, or the “Elastic Clause”, of Article I of the US Constitution gives Congress the power to make any laws that are “necessary and proper” for carrying out its enumerated powers. This clause has been interpreted by the Supreme Court to give Congress broad discretion over a wide range of powers not explicitly mentioned in the Constitution. Some of these powers include the ability to create new government programs and agencies, levy taxes and spending, regulate commerce, and issue currency.