Which statement is true regarding the relationship between federal and state laws?

The assertion that federal laws take precedence over state laws is grounded in the Supremacy Clause of the United States Constitution, which is found in Article VI. This clause establishes that the Constitution, and the laws made in pursuance thereof, take priority over any conflicting state laws. When there is a conflict between federal and state law, federal law will prevail, meaning states cannot make laws that contradict federal legislation. This hierarchical relationship ensures a uniform legal framework across the nation, particularly important in areas such as civil rights, immigration, and interstate commerce.

The other options misinterpret the dynamics of federalism. State laws do not inherently override federal laws, and while federal and state laws can operate independently in terms of areas of jurisdiction, they can directly interact and affect each other’s enforcement and application. Similarly, the notion that federal laws are only applicable in certain states is inaccurate, as federal laws apply uniformly across all states unless otherwise specified.