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Implied Powers

Definition

These are powers not explicitly stated in the Constitution but are inferred as necessary to fulfill the duties of the federal government.

Analogy

Think of implied powers like a chef's secret ingredients. The recipe (Constitution) doesn't list them, but they're used to make the dish (government actions) work effectively.

Related terms

Enumerated Powers: These are powers specifically granted to Congress by the Constitution.

Inherent Powers: These are powers that national governments generally possess simply because they exist as a government, such as control over immigration.

Reserved Powers: These are powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the states, and therefore reserved for states or people.