Which amendment reserves powers to the states and to the people?

Which amendment reserves powers to the states and to the people?

• A. First Amendment
• B. Tenth Amendment
• C. Fifth Amendment
• D. Ninth Amendment

Answer: (B)

This question tests how power is shared between the national government and the states. The Tenth Amendment makes it clear that the federal government only has powers specifically delegated to it by the Constitution, and all other powers are reserved for the States or the People. In other words, anything not listed for the national government stays at the state level or with individuals. That idea underpins federalism and explains why states handle many matters like education and local policing, unless a federal law or the Constitution says otherwise. The other amendments protect particular rights or address rights not listed, but they don’t establish who holds residual governing power.

This question tests how power is shared between the national government and the states. The Tenth Amendment makes it clear that the federal government only has powers specifically delegated to it by the Constitution, and all other powers are reserved for the States or the People. In other words, anything not listed for the national government stays at the state level or with individuals. That idea underpins federalism and explains why states handle many matters like education and local policing, unless a federal law or the Constitution says otherwise. The other amendments protect particular rights or address rights not listed, but they don’t establish who holds residual governing power.