Delegated (sometimes called enumerated or expressed) powers are specifically granted to the federal government in Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution. This includes the power to coin money, to regulate commerce, to declare war, to raise and maintain armed forces, and to establish a Post Office.
Delegated powers are those powers that are specifically outlined in the Constitution. These powers outline the things that Congress can do, as well as define what Congress is in charge of regulating. Two reasons why delegated powers are important are:
Delegated powers inform us of the duties of Congress. This ensures that Congress deals with the subjects that are pertinent to it, as opposed to ignoring them or leaving them to the side.
Delegated powers allow us to limit Congress and its power. This is important as it ensures that Congress is not able to gather <em>too much</em> power for its benefit.
