Powers of Congress - Article I, Section 8

Vocabulary flashcards covering the powers of Congress as outlined in Article I, Section 8 of the US Constitution.

Power to Tax and Fund Military

Congress can impose taxes and use the revenue to fund the US military.

Power to Borrow Money

Congress can borrow money on the credit of the United States, including managing budgets.

Power to Regulate Commerce

Congress has the authority to regulate commerce with foreign nations, among the several states, and with Native American Tribes.

Power over Naturalization and Bankruptcy

Congress can establish uniform rules for naturalization and uniform laws concerning bankruptcies, including punishment for the bankrupt.

Power to Coin Money and Regulate Standards

Congress can coin money, regulate its value and currency exchange, and adjust the standard of weights and measures.

Power to Punish Counterfeiting

Congress can establish punishments for counterfeiting US securities and money.

Power to Establish Post Offices and Roads

Congress has the authority to establish post offices and post roads.

Power to Promote Science and Arts (Intellectual Property)

Congress supports innovation in science and arts by allowing for publications of findings and writings.

Power to Constitute Lower Federal Courts

Congress has the authority to establish federal courts inferior to the Supreme Court.

Power to Define and Punish Crimes (on high seas/against nations)

Congress can establish laws and punishments against crimes such as piracy, felonies on waters beyond national authority, and violations of international law.

Power to Declare War and Grant Letters of Marque and Reprisal

Congress can declare war, grant Letters of Marque and Reprisal (government authorizations for privateers), and make rules on obtaining land and water.

Power to Raise and Support Armies

Congress has the power to create and strengthen armies, with the budget requiring approval every 2 years to prevent abuse of power.

Power to Provide and Maintain a Navy

Congress has the power to provide and maintain a Navy.

Power to Make Rules for Armed Forces

Congress is to make rules and regulate the armed forces (land and naval).

Power to Call Forth Militia

Congress can send troops to enforce laws, suppress insurrections, and repel invasions.

Power to Organize, Arm, and Discipline Militia

Congress must provide for the organization, supply, and discipline of the army (militia), and employ/appoint officers according to congressional discipline.

Power to Exercise Exclusive Legislation over Federal District

Congress is granted the power to make laws within a specific area (not exceeding 10 miles square) to establish the seat of government.

Necessary and Proper Clause (Elastic Clause)

Grants Congress the power to make all laws which shall be necessary and proper for carrying into execution its enumerated powers, and all other powers vested by the Constitution.