A non-profit organization files a lawsuit in federal court against a state government, alleging that the state has failed to uphold specific federal civil rights protections. The state argues that the lawsuit is barred by the Eleventh Amendment due to state sovereign immunity. Under which condition can the federal court proceed with the lawsuit despite the state's claim of immunity?
If the non-profit organization can demonstrate direct involvement of state officials in the alleged violation.
If the lawsuit also includes claims against federal officials alongside the state.
If Congress has enacted legislation under its constitutional enforcement powers that permits such lawsuits.
If the state's actions are authorized or ratified by its representatives.
The lawsuit can proceed if Congress has enacted legislation under its constitutional enforcement powers that allow such lawsuits against the state. This legislative action effectively overrides the state's sovereign immunity in this context. The other options are incorrect because proving direct involvement of state officials, state authorization, or including federal officials do not bypass the sovereign immunity without congressional authorization.
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What is the Eleventh Amendment and how does it relate to sovereign immunity?
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What are Congress's constitutional enforcement powers?
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What kinds of legislation can bypass state sovereign immunity in lawsuits?