Which of the following statements best captures the meaning of the term "elastic clause," when applied to the U.S. Constitution?
A) The federal government can assume authority normally delegated to the state governments whenever it sees fit.
B) During national emergencies, the powers of the federal government can be expanded beyond their constitutional bounds.
C) The federal government can only push its powers so far before the ties that bind the states together in a union break from the pressure.
D) The federal government has any and all powers not specifically delegated to the state governments or denied to the federal government.
E) The federal government can assume additional powers as needed in order to accomplish the functions established for it by the Constitution.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The "elastic clause," formally known as the Necessary and Proper Clause, allows the federal government to assume additional powers as needed to carry out its constitutionally assigned duties, which is best reflected in option E.

Which of the Following Statements Best Captures the Meaning of the Term