Which of the following best describes the impact of US v. Lopez on federal power?

Study for the AP Government and Politics Federalism Test. Analyze questions with hints and explanations. Ace your exam with our resources!

The chosen answer indicates that US v. Lopez diminished the federal government's power over schools, which reflects a significant aspect of the Supreme Court's ruling. In this landmark case decided in 1995, the Court ruled that Congress had exceeded its authority under the Commerce Clause by passing a law that prohibited the possession of firearms in school zones. This decision marked a pivotal moment in federalism, as it set a precedent for limiting the scope of federal power over areas traditionally managed by states, such as education.

The ruling emphasized the importance of maintaining a balance between state and federal authority, culminating in a judicial interpretation that underscored the limitations of federal power in areas not directly related to interstate commerce. This case indicated a shift towards reaffirming state sovereignty, leading to an interpretation that federal legislative power does not extend indiscriminately into state affairs.

The other options do not align accurately with the effects of the ruling. While it did not significantly expand federal authority, nor did it directly uphold state power over federal control in education, the case primarily focused on the limits of congressional power concerning the Commerce Clause, making the choice of diminishing federal power in education compelling. Overall, US v. Lopez represents a crucial instance where the Supreme Court sought to restore a degree of balance between

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