Final answer:
The elastic clause, or necessary and proper clause, enables the federal government to enact laws needed to execute its constitutional responsibilities. Examples include the establishment of the IRS, the Federal Reserve Board, regulating interstate commerce, drafting for military service, and creating social policies like anti-discrimination laws and minimum wage standards.
Step-by-step explanation:
The elastic clause, officially named the necessary and proper clause, provides the federal government the power to make laws which are necessary and proper for executing its constitutional powers. Though not explicitly listed in the Constitution, some examples of powers extended through this clause include the establishment of the Federal Reserve Board, creation of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to collect taxes, and the regulation of interstate commerce through laws.
Another example is the federal government's ability to raise and support armies, including establishing a draft system, thanks to the elastic clause. Additionally, it supports social welfare policies like prohibition of discrimination in public accommodations and the setting of a minimum wage. All these actions are manifestations of the implied powers that the government possesses, justified by the broad scope of the elastic clause.