What is another name for the Elastic Clause?

What is another name for the Elastic Clause?

• A. The Commerce Clause
• B. The Privileges and Immunities Clause
• C. The Necessary and Proper Clause
• D. The Supremacy Clause

Answer: (C)

The Elastic Clause refers to the provision in the Constitution that lets Congress pass laws necessary and proper to carry out its enumerated powers. Its official name is the Necessary and Proper Clause, found in Article I, Section 8. The term “elastic” captures how this clause gives Congress flexibility to act beyond strictly listed powers by creating laws needed to execute those powers.

This is the best answer because the phrase Elastic Clause is simply another name for the Necessary and Proper Clause, which authorizes implied powers. The other clauses serve different purposes: the Commerce Clause deals with regulating trade between states and with other nations, the Privileges and Immunities Clause protects citizens’ rights across states, and the Supremacy Clause establishes that the Constitution and federal laws are the supreme law of the land.