Which powers does Congress have due to the Elastic Clause?

• A. Enumerated powers
• B. Reserved powers
• C. Implied powers
• D. Concurrent powers

Answer: (C)

The Elastic Clause, or the Necessary and Proper Clause, gives Congress the flexibility to pass laws needed to carry out its enumerated powers. When a law isn’t stated explicitly in the Constitution but is necessary to execute those powers, Congress gains implied powers—powers not written down but reasonably inferred as part of its authority. This sets apart from enumerated powers, which are listed directly in the Constitution, reserved powers, which belong to the states, and concurrent powers, which both federal and state governments share. A classic example is establishing a national bank: while the bank itself isn’t enumerated, it is a reasonable means to manage money, borrow, and regulate the economy, which are among the powers Congress has. So, the powers described here are implied powers.