U.S. Citizenship Civics TestSystem of GovernmentMedium
An immigrant is learning about the U.S. government and asks about the specific powers granted to Congress. Which of the following is an 'expressed power' of Congress?
- AEstablishing public schools
- BConducting elections
- CIssuing drivers' licenses
- DCoining money
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Coining money
Expressed powers are those specifically listed in the U.S. Constitution. Article I, Section 8, Clause 5 grants Congress the power to 'coin Money, regulate the Value thereof, and of foreign Coin'.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Establishing public schools is a reserved power of the states.
- B. Conducting elections is primarily a reserved power of the states, though Congress can regulate federal elections.
- C. Issuing drivers' licenses is a reserved power of the states.
Expressed Powers of Congress
Specific powers granted to the U.S. Congress explicitly stated in Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution.
- Also known as enumerated powers
- Examples: declare war, coin money, regulate commerce
- Limits federal power to what is listed
Memory trick: Congress 'Coins' money, explicitly.