U.S. History STAAR ( State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness) Practice Test

What does the Elastic Clause in the Constitution allow Congress to do?

1. Pass laws necessary for carrying out enumerated powers

2. Establish state laws overriding federal laws

3. Limit the powers of the President

4. Declare war without Congressional approval

The correct answer is: Pass laws necessary for carrying out enumerated powers

The Elastic Clause, found in Article I, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitution, allows Congress to pass laws that are deemed necessary and proper for executing its lawful powers. This clause provides Congress with the flexibility to adapt its legislative authority to meet the changing needs of the nation, enabling it to enact laws that support the execution of its enumerated powers defined elsewhere in the Constitution. The significance of this is that it empowers Congress to address issues and challenges that were not explicitly foreseen by the framers of the Constitution. Thus, the Elastic Clause is often cited as a foundation for Congress's ability to legislate in a broad and adaptable manner, ensuring that the government can function effectively as society evolves. The other choices do not accurately reflect the scope or purpose of the Elastic Clause. For instance, the establishment of state laws overriding federal laws contradicts the Supremacy Clause of the Constitution, which states that federal law takes precedence. Limiting the powers of the President directly pertains to different mechanisms in the Constitution, such as checks and balances. Moreover, declaring war without Congressional approval is not aligned with the intent of the framers, as the Constitution specifically grants Congress the power to declare war, not allowing such authority to rest solely with the President.