What does the commerce clause grant to the federal government?

The commerce clause, found in Article I, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitution, grants the federal government the authority to regulate commerce among the states, with foreign nations, and with Native American tribes. This power encompasses a wide range of business activities that affect economic relationships both between states and internationally.

Choosing the regulation of business activity as the answer reflects a comprehensive understanding of how the commerce clause impacts economic interactions. This regulatory power allows Congress to enact laws that facilitate trade and economic commerce across state lines, which is essential for maintaining a unified national market.

While regulating international trade is indeed part of the commerce clause, the primary focus of the clause involves maintaining regulation over commerce that occurs domestically among states. The power to impose taxes is separate and is specifically addressed in different sections of the Constitution. Ultimately, the correct answer highlights the broad sweep of the federal government’s authority to oversee business activities that can impact interstate commerce.