Delegated Powers

Definition

These are powers that the Constitution grants or delegates to the national government. They include things like regulating interstate commerce, declaring war, and maintaining a military.

Analogy

Think of delegated powers as chores your parents might assign you. Just like they delegate specific tasks to you (like taking out the trash or washing dishes), the Constitution delegates certain responsibilities to the federal government.

Related terms

Enumerated Powers: These are specific powers granted to Congress by the Constitution. They're listed in Article I, Section 8 and include things like coining money and establishing post offices.

Implied Powers: These are powers not explicitly stated in the Constitution but implied through the "necessary and proper" clause. For example, while it doesn't say Congress can establish a bank, this power is implied because it's necessary for carrying out other enumerated powers.

Reserved Powers: These are powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution nor prohibited by it to states. They're reserved for state governments or individuals.