U.S. Citizenship Civics TestSystem of GovernmentMedium
A civics student is learning about the different types of powers outlined in the U.S. Constitution. Which of the following is an example of a concurrent power?
- ACollecting taxes
- BEstablishing post offices
- CCoining money
- DDeclaring war
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Collecting taxes
Concurrent powers are those shared by both the federal and state governments. Collecting taxes is a prime example, as both levels of government levy taxes.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Establishing post offices is an exclusive power of the federal government (Congress).
- C. Coining money is an exclusive power of the federal government (Congress).
- D. Declaring war is an exclusive power of the federal government (Congress).
Concurrent Powers
Powers shared by both the federal government and the state governments, allowing both levels to exercise authority in the same areas.
- Examples include collecting taxes, building roads, establishing courts
- Not exclusive to either federal or state
- Can sometimes lead to conflicts or overlapping regulations
Memory trick: Concurrent powers: 'Concurrently' both levels can do it.