What is the importance of the elastic clause of the constitution?
The elastic clause, also known as the Necessary-and-Proper Clause, is found in Article I, section 8, of the Constitution. It authorizes Congress to pass all laws “necessary and proper” to carry out the enumerated (listed) powers of Congress. The clause allows Congress some degree of flexibility in enacting legislation. It gives the Congress more power than what is stated in the Constitution. Example–the government has the power to collect taxes. But, the Constitution does not say where that money should be held. It was argued that the Elastic Clause gave Congress the power to establish a National Bank to hold the money. It allows Congress to pass laws that are needed as time changes.
