Enclave Clause – Article I Section 8, Clause 17 of the Constitution

The United States Constitution

The Enclave Clause is one of Congress’ enumerated powers found in the Constitution of the United States, Article. I. Section. 8., clause 17:

(Clause 17 – Enclave clause)

[The Congress shall have Power] To exercise exclusive Legislation in all Cases whatsoever, over such District (not exceeding ten Miles square) as may, by Cession of particular States, and the Acceptance of Congress, become the Seat of the Government of the United States, and to exercise like Authority over all Places purchased by the Consent of the Legislature of the State in which the Same shall be, for the Erection of Forts, Magazines, Arsenals, dock-Yards, and other needful Buildings;–And

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From the U.S. Senate web site:

This clause enables Congress to govern the District of Columbia. Congress has now delegated that power to a locally elected government, subject to federal oversight. Congress also governs forts, arsenals, and other places obtained from the states for the federal government’s purposes.

 

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