The Constitution protects federal authority over states through the Elastic Clause, allowing adaptable legislation, and the Full Faith and Credit Clause, ensuring recognition of states' acts. The Privileges and Immunities Clause promotes equal treatment among citizens. The correct options are: A. Elastic Clause. C. Full Faith and Credit Clause. D. Privileges and Immunities Clause
The Constitution protects the authority of the federal government over the states through several mechanisms:
A. Elastic Clause: The elastic clause, also known as the Necessary and Proper Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 18), grants Congress the power to make laws that are necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers. This clause provides flexibility in legislation, allowing the federal government to adapt to changing circumstances.
C. Full Faith and Credit Clause: The Full Faith and Credit Clause (Article IV, Section 1) ensures that states recognize and respect the public acts, records, and judicial proceedings of other states. It promotes a sense of unity and legal reciprocity among the states.
D. Privileges and Immunities Clause: The Privileges and Immunities Clause (Article IV, Section 2) prohibits states from discriminating against citizens of other states regarding fundamental rights and privileges. It fosters equal treatment of citizens across state boundaries.
While the Reserved Powers (Option B) concept acknowledges that powers not granted to the federal government are reserved for the states, it does not explicitly protect federal authority over the states.