What is one power of the federal government?

The ability to regulate interstate commerce is a distinct power granted to the federal government by the Constitution. This power allows Congress to oversee and manage trade and commerce that crosses state lines, ensuring a uniform economic framework and preventing individual states from imposing trade barriers that could disrupt the flow of goods and services across the nation. The Commerce Clause, found in Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution, specifically provides this authority, emphasizing the federal government’s role in maintaining a stable national economy and fostering relationships between states.

In contrast, the other options primarily fall under the jurisdiction of state or local governments. Providing schooling is generally managed at the state or local level, allowing communities to tailor educational systems to their specific needs. The establishment of local governments is also a responsibility of the states, reflecting the principle of federalism, where power is shared between national and state governments. Issuing driver's licenses is similarly a state power, as states are responsible for regulating their own transportation systems, including licensing drivers. These distinctions clarify why regulating interstate commerce is a unique power of the federal government.