A federal statute requires employers to provide workers with paid family leave. To fund this program, Congress levies a tax on businesses generating annual revenue exceeding $500,000. A business owner challenges the law, arguing that Congress lacks the authority to impose this regulation and tax. Which of the following is the most accurate basis for Congress's authority to enact this statute?
Congress can regulate the states through its Necessary and Proper Clause, enabling any action required to enforce federal laws.
Congress’s power stems from the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment to promote fair workplace policies.
Congress derives authority from the 10th Amendment to provide for the public welfare and ensure uniformity in employment standards across the states.
Congress has authority under the Commerce Clause to regulate economic activity substantially affecting interstate commerce and under its taxing power to fund programs advancing the general welfare.
Congress has the authority to regulate economic activity that substantially affects interstate commerce. Under its commerce power, Congress can impose regulations on employers, particularly larger businesses that are likely engaged in interstate commerce. Additionally, Congress possesses broad taxing and spending powers as long as the tax serves a general welfare purpose, which funding a family leave program does. Although the correct answer identifies these bases, answers wrongly focusing on unrelated clauses or powers improperly extend Congress’s authority beyond its constitutional limits. The Necessary and Proper Clause, while supportive, cannot independently grant new powers.
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What is the Commerce Clause and how does it relate to Congress's power to legislate?
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What does Congress's taxing power entail in terms of funding social programs?
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Why is the 10th Amendment mentioned in discussions about Congress's powers?