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

What is another name for the Necessary and Proper Clause?

1. Grandfather Clause

2. Elastic Clause

3. Martial Law Clause

4. Federal Powers Clause

The correct answer is: Elastic Clause

The Necessary and Proper Clause, located in Article I, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitution, is often referred to as the Elastic Clause. This term highlights the clause's role in granting Congress the flexibility to create laws that are not explicitly listed in the Constitution but are deemed necessary for executing its enumerated powers. The "elastic" nature comes from its ability to adapt and stretch the powers of Congress to meet the changing needs of the nation. This adaptive quality has allowed Congress to enact laws on a wide variety of issues, demonstrating the dynamic relationship between the government and the needs of society. As a result, the Elastic Clause has been crucial in enabling legislation that addresses contemporary challenges that the Founding Fathers could not have anticipated. The other names provided do not reflect the function or context of the Necessary and Proper Clause. For instance, the Grandfather Clause generally refers to state laws concerning voting rights rather than congressional power. Martial Law Clause pertains to the powers of civil governance during emergencies, and the Federal Powers Clause is not a recognized term in constitutional law.