Which of the following is an example of a concurrent power?

Which of the following is an example of a concurrent power?

• A. Regulate interstate commerce
• B. Conduct foreign relations
• C. Collect taxes
• D. Declare war

Answer: (C)

Concurrent powers are those that are shared by both the federal government and the state governments. Collecting taxes is a prime example of a concurrent power because both levels of government have the authority to levy taxes on individuals and businesses. This capability allows both federal and state authorities to generate revenue to fund their respective operations and public services. In contrast, regulating interstate commerce is primarily a power reserved for the federal government, as it involves trade that crosses state lines. Conducting foreign relations is exclusively a federal power, as states are not allowed to engage in international diplomacy. Finally, the authority to declare war is also a federal power, specifically vested in Congress. Thus, the ability to collect taxes is unique in that it embodies the simultaneous authority of both state and federal governments, solidifying its status as a concurrent power.

Concurrent powers are those that are shared by both the federal government and the state governments. Collecting taxes is a prime example of a concurrent power because both levels of government have the authority to levy taxes on individuals and businesses. This capability allows both federal and state authorities to generate revenue to fund their respective operations and public services.

In contrast, regulating interstate commerce is primarily a power reserved for the federal government, as it involves trade that crosses state lines. Conducting foreign relations is exclusively a federal power, as states are not allowed to engage in international diplomacy. Finally, the authority to declare war is also a federal power, specifically vested in Congress. Thus, the ability to collect taxes is unique in that it embodies the simultaneous authority of both state and federal governments, solidifying its status as a concurrent power.