What are interstate compacts?

Interstate compacts are legally binding agreements made between two or more states that require Congressional approval. This process is established in the Constitution, specifically in Article I, Section 10, which states that no state shall enter into any agreement or compact with another state without the consent of Congress. This requirement ensures that interstate relations are conducted under the oversight of the federal government, promoting cooperation and resolving conflicts between states effectively.

This type of arrangement allows states to work together on various issues, such as resource management, environmental concerns, infrastructure, and transportation, thereby fostering collaborative solutions that benefit multiple states involved. The necessity for Congressional approval also serves as a check on state power, ensuring that such agreements do not undermine federal authority or violate the rights of other states.

The other options do not accurately reflect the legal framework surrounding interstate compacts: informal agreements lack the binding legal nature and oversight required; verbal agreements are not recognized in the same way, particularly without formal approval; and mutual agreements solely between state legislatures would bypass the necessary federal oversight, leading to potential conflicts.