Final answer:
The necessary and proper clause, often referred to as the elastic clause, has not limited but expanded the powers of the national government. It allows Congress to pass laws that are necessary and proper to carrying out its enumerated powers, thus broadening the scope of federal authority.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that the necessary and proper clause has had the effect of limiting the power of the national government is false. The necessary and proper clause, also known as the elastic clause, is found in Article I, Section 8, of the U.S. Constitution. This clause gives Congress the power to make all laws which shall be necessary and proper for carrying into execution the enumerated powers and all other powers vested by the Constitution in the government of the United States.
Over time, the interpretation of this clause has actually led to an expansion of federal powers rather than a limitation. It allows Congress to pass laws beyond those expressly listed in the Constitution, provided they are in pursuit of its constitutionally enumerated powers, and as such, has been an essential tool in the growth of the federal government's role. Notable cases, such as McCulloch v. Maryland, have affirmed the broad nature of the powers conferred by the necessary and proper clause.