What are residual powers in the context of the Constitution?

Residual powers refer to those powers that are not specifically mentioned in the Constitution and remain with the states. This concept is rooted in the division of powers outlined in the Constitution, where it delineates certain responsibilities and authorities for the federal government while reserving others for state governments.

When the Constitution was created, the framers understood that not all powers could be enumerated explicitly, thus leaving any authority not granted to the federal government to the states. This arrangement is essential for maintaining a balance between state and federal powers, providing states with the autonomy to legislate on matters that are not explicitly the responsibility of the national government.

For instance, issues like education, health, and transportation often fall under residual powers, allowing states to create laws and policies tailored to their unique circumstances. This flexibility is a fundamental aspect of the federal system and underscores the importance of state governments in addressing local needs.

In contrast, powers explicitly listed in the Constitution are referred to as enumerated powers, while powers held exclusively by the federal government or shared between state and federal governments fall into other categories that do not pertain to the definition of residual powers.