Key Supreme Court Cases and Federalism Concepts

14th Amendment

Which amendment applies the Bill of Rights to the states?

Burwell v. Hobby Lobby Stores (2014)

The Supreme Court ruled that for-profit organizations can be exempt from laws that violate their religious beliefs.

Griswold v. Connecticut (1965)

Americans have a right to privacy that the government can't lawfully invade.

Schenck v. United States (1919)

People have freedom of speech, but it can be limited if the speech presents a "clear and present danger."

McCulloch v. Maryland (1819)

The federal government has implied powers and states cannot tax federal institutions.

Shared Powers

Both enforce laws, build infrastructure, and charter banks — powers granted under the Constitution.

Cooperative Federalism

National, state, and local governments share responsibilities and work together to solve problems.