Chapter 7 Lecture Material

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Enumerated Powers

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Specific powers listed in the U.S. Constitution (Article I, Section 8) that are given directly to Congress. Examples: the power to tax, to coin money, to declare war, and to regulate interstate commerce.

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Expressed Powers

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Another term for enumerated powers—powers that are clearly written in the Constitution. Example: Congress has the expressed power to raise and support armies.

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Inherent Powers

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Powers that belong to any national government simply because it is a sovereign nation. These are not written in the Constitution but are necessary for the government to function. Example: controlling borders or conducting foreign affairs.

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Implied Powers

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Powers that are not directly stated in the Constitution but are suggested by the enumerated powers. Congress uses these powers to make laws needed to carry out its expressed powers. Example: creating an Air Force (implied from the power to raise armies).

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Elastic Clause (Necessary and Proper Clause)

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The clause in Article I, Section 8 that gives Congress the authority to make all laws 'necessary and proper' for carrying out its enumerated powers. Called 'elastic' because it stretches congressional power to meet new needs. Example: used to justify laws about the national bank or federal highways.

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Bill

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A proposed law that is introduced in either the House or the Senate. It must pass both chambers of Congress and be signed by the President to become law. Example: A bill to increase school funding.

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Resolutions

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Formal statements of opinion or policy made by one or both chambers of Congress. Some resolutions (like joint resolutions) have the force of law if signed by the President; others (like simple resolutions) do not. Example: A resolution honoring Veterans Day.

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Veto

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The President’s power to reject a bill passed by Congress. Congress can override a veto with a two-thirds vote in both chambers. Example: If the President disagrees with a spending bill, they can veto it instead of signing it.

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Appropriations

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Funds that Congress sets aside for specific government purposes or programs. The House Appropriations Committee plays a key role in deciding how money is spent. Example: appropriating $10 billion for disaster relief.

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Entitlement Programs

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Government programs that provide benefits to people who meet certain eligibility requirements. These programs are considered mandatory spending—Congress must fund them by law. Examples: Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, and veterans’ benefits.