What does the Tenth Amendment to the Constitution state?

The Tenth Amendment of the United States Constitution is a key element in the framework of federalism, which delineates the distribution of power between the federal government and the states. The amendment specifically states that any powers not delegated to the federal government by the Constitution are reserved for the states or the people. This encapsulates the principle that the federal government is one of limited powers, having only those responsibilities explicitly granted by the Constitution.

By asserting that powers not expressly assigned to the national government are retained at the state level or by the populace, the Tenth Amendment protects the rights and authorities of states and individuals. This concept is foundational to maintaining a balance of power within the governmental structure, ensuring that local governance retains significant autonomy and that citizens have a voice in government.

Other options do not accurately reflect the Tenth Amendment's wording or intent. For instance, saying powers are reserved for local governments misrepresents the amendment, primarily directing it to the states or the people instead. The claim that all powers are given to the federal government contradicts the fundamental purpose of the Tenth Amendment by ignoring the limitations imposed on federal authority. Finally, while states can create their own constitutions, this power is a broader aspect of state sovereignty and is not directly addressed