Key constitutional clauses

Bill of attainer clause

Congress cannot pass a law that singles out a person for punishment without trial.

Commerce Clause

Congress can regulate trade between nations, between states, and among Indian tribes.

Contracts clause

No state can interfere with the execution of contracts. For example, a state could not pass a law that declares all debts to be null and void.

Due Process Clause 5th Amendment

The national government must observe fair procedures when it denies a person life, liberty,or property without due process of law.

Due process clause 14th amendment

State governments must observe fair procedures when they deny a person life,liberty, or property.

Elastic clause article l

Congress can exercise powers not specifically stated in the constitution if those powers are “necessary and proper” for carrying into execution the foregoing powers