Ace the 2026 U.S. History STAAR – Conquer Texas with Knowledge!

The correct response highlights the concept of reserved powers, which are addressed in the Tenth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. This amendment explicitly states that powers not delegated to the federal government by the Constitution, nor prohibited to the states, are reserved to the states respectively, or to the people. This foundational principle establishes a clear demarcation between federal and state authority, ensuring that states retain significant powers and responsibilities that are not under federal jurisdiction.

In this context, "reserved powers" are crucial for maintaining a balance of power within the federal system, allowing states to govern issues such as education, transportation, and local law enforcement without federal interference. This principle supports the idea of federalism, where both state and federal governments have roles that protect the rights and interests of citizens at different levels.

The other choices do not accurately represent the relationship between state and federal powers. Terms like "solemn powers," "standards of living," and "enumerated rights" do not pertain to the constitutional allocation of authority between state and federal governments, and therefore do not apply to the question regarding the rights of states.