What powers are reserved to the states?

• A. Powers granted to the federal government
• B. Powers not delegated to the federal government by the Constitution
• C. Powers shared between state and federal government
• D. Powers held by the Supreme Court

Answer: (B)

The correct answer highlights that the powers reserved to the states are those that are not explicitly granted to the federal government by the Constitution. This concept is rooted in the Tenth Amendment, which states that powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the states, are reserved to the states respectively, or to the people. This means that the states have the authority to govern in areas not specifically addressed at the federal level, allowing them to create their own laws and regulations on issues like education, transportation, and healthcare, among others. This framework underscores the principle of federalism, where power is divided between the national and state governments, ensuring a balance and a degree of autonomy for each state.