Elastic-like powers refer to the broad interpretation of the Necessary and Proper Clause in the U.S. Constitution, which allows Congress to pass laws that are deemed necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers.
Related terms
Enumerated powers: These are the specific powers granted to Congress by the U.S. Constitution, such as the power to tax or declare war.
Implied powers: These are additional powers that are not specifically listed in the Constitution but can be inferred from the necessary and proper clause.
McCulloch v. Maryland: This landmark Supreme Court case established the principle of implied powers and upheld Congress's use of elastic-like powers.