American Gov. Constitutional Test

To borrow Money on the credit of the United States.

Borrowing: The federal government borrows money by issuing bonds.

To regulate Commerce with foreign Nations, and among the several States, and with the Indian Tribes.

Commerce: The exact meaning of "commerce" has caused controversy. The trend has been to expand its meaning and, consequently, the extent of Congress' powers.

To provide for the Punishment of counterfeiting the Securities and current Coin of the United States.

Counterfeiting: "Counterfeiting" means illegally imitation or forging.

To coin Money, regulate the Value thereof, and of foreign Coin, and fix the Standard of Weights and Measures.

Currency: Control over money is an exclusive federal power; the states are forbidden to issue currency.

To establish an uniform Rule of Naturalization, and uniform Laws on the subject of Bankruptcies throughout the United States.

Naturalization and Bankruptcy: "Naturalization" refers to the procedure by which a citizen of a foreign nation becomes a citizen of the United States.

To establish Post Offices and post Roads.

Post Office: In 1970 the United States Postal Service replaced the Post Office Department.

The Congress shall have the Power To Lay and collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts and Excises, to pay the Debts and provide for the common Defence and general Welfare of the United States; but all Duties, Imposts and Excises shall be uniform throughout the United States.

Revenue: This clause gives Congress the power to raise and spend revenue. Taxes must be levied at the same rate throughout the nation.