What are implied powers?

Implied powers refer to those authorities that are not explicitly outlined in the Constitution but are deemed necessary for the government to effectively carry out its constitutional responsibilities. This concept is grounded in the Necessary and Proper Clause, also known as the Elastic Clause, located in Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution. This clause grants Congress the ability to create laws that are not explicitly mentioned in the Constitution, as long as they are related to the execution of its enumerated powers.

For example, if Congress has the power to regulate interstate commerce, it may also have the implied power to create administrative agencies to help enforce those regulations, even though the Constitution does not specifically mention the creation of such agencies.

The other options do not accurately reflect the definition of implied powers. Powers explicitly stated in the Constitution are known as enumerated powers, while the powers held by state governments relate more to reserved powers. Lastly, powers derived from international treaties would mostly involve foreign affairs and are not connected to the implied powers granted to Congress through the Constitution.