Article I, Section 10, Clause 3

Definition

Article I, Section 10, Clause 3 of the U.S. Constitution prohibits states from entering into agreements or compacts with one another without the consent of Congress. This clause is crucial in maintaining the supremacy of federal law and preventing states from forming alliances that could undermine national unity and authority. It emphasizes the need for cooperation among states while ensuring that such arrangements do not conflict with federal interests.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. States are forbidden from engaging in treaties or alliances with foreign nations as well as other states without Congressional consent.
2. This clause was designed to prevent conflicts between states and ensure a unified national policy on interstate matters.
3. Interstate compacts must be approved by Congress, ensuring that the federal government retains oversight over state agreements.
4. Examples of interstate compacts include agreements on environmental regulations, transportation projects, and resource management.
5. The clause reflects the Founding Fathers' intention to create a strong federal government while allowing for necessary state cooperation.

Review Questions

• How does Article I, Section 10, Clause 3 regulate state interactions and promote federal authority?
  • Article I, Section 10, Clause 3 regulates state interactions by prohibiting states from forming compacts or agreements with one another without Congressional approval. This regulation promotes federal authority by ensuring that all interstate agreements align with national interests and do not threaten the unity of the country. By requiring congressional consent, this clause prevents states from potentially undermining federal law and encourages cooperation under a federal framework.
• Discuss the implications of Interstate Compacts in light of Article I, Section 10, Clause 3 for regional cooperation among states.
  • Interstate Compacts have significant implications for regional cooperation among states as they provide a structured way for states to collaborate on shared issues while respecting federal oversight. Under Article I, Section 10, Clause 3, states must seek congressional approval for their compacts, which ensures that these agreements serve both state and national interests. This fosters an environment where states can work together on common challenges like environmental protection or infrastructure development while maintaining the supremacy of federal law.
• Evaluate how Article I, Section 10, Clause 3 reflects the balance between state sovereignty and federal authority in the U.S. Constitution.
  • Article I, Section 10, Clause 3 exemplifies the balance between state sovereignty and federal authority by allowing states to enter into agreements with one another only when approved by Congress. This reflects a recognition of states' rights to manage their own affairs and work collaboratively on regional issues while simultaneously asserting the supremacy of federal authority over interstate relations. The requirement for congressional approval helps prevent any individual state from gaining too much power through compacts that could conflict with national interests, ultimately promoting a cohesive national policy.

Related terms

Interstate Compact: An agreement between two or more states to cooperate on mutual interests, often requiring congressional approval.

Federalism:

A system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units, like states.

Supremacy Clause:

Part of Article VI of the Constitution stating that federal law takes precedence over state laws when there is a conflict.