Powers of the Government
Updated February 21, 2017 | Factmonster Staff 
Here is a breakdown of national and state government powers.
Source: The U.S. Government Printing Office
| National Government | State Government |
* Print money * Regulate interstate (between states) and international trade * Make treaties and conduct foreign policy * Declare war * Provide an army and navy * Establish post offices * Make laws necessary and proper to carry out the these powers | * Issue licenses * Regulate intrastate (within the state) businesses * Conduct elections * Establish local governments * Ratify amendments to the Constitution * Take measures for public health and safety * May exert powers the Constitution does not delegate to the national government or prohibit the states from using |
In addition to their exclusive powers, both the national government and state governments share the power of being able to:
 |
- Collect taxes
- Build roads
- Borrow money
- Establish courts
- Make and enforce laws
- Charter banks and corporations
- Spend money for the general welfare
- Take private property for public purposes, with just compensation
