Question

when state courts make decisions in cases, they have to follow the supremacy clause of the u.s. constitution. read the supremacy clause, then answer the question.
article vi, paragraph 2
this constitution, and the laws of the united states which shall be made in pursuance thereof... shall be the supreme law of the land; and the judges in every state shall be bound thereby, any thing in the constitution or laws of any state to the contrary notwithstanding.
in pursuance thereof: by following the constitution
thereby: by them
notwithstanding: regardless
what does the supremacy clause mean for state courts?
state courts are only bound by federal law and the u.s. constitution if explicitly stated by congress.
state courts must make decisions based on the u.s. constitution and federal law, even if they conflict with state laws.
state courts only have the power to interpret state laws, regardless of any federal legislation.
state courts can overrule a federal law if it conflicts with a state’s constitution or laws passed by a state legislature.

Explanation:

The supremacy clause (Article VI, Paragraph 2) states that the U.S. Constitution and federal laws made under it are the supreme law of the land. State judges are bound by them, even if state laws/constitutions contradict. Analyzing each option:

• First option: The clause doesn’t require explicit Congressional statement—federal law/Constitution are supreme inherently. Eliminate.
• Second option: Matches the clause’s meaning: state courts must follow federal law/Constitution, even over conflicting state laws.
• Third option: State courts don’t only interpret state laws; they must follow federal law too. Eliminate.
• Fourth option: State courts can’t overrule federal law (federal law is supreme). Eliminate.

Answer:

B. State courts must make decisions based on the U.S. Constitution and federal law, even if they conflict with state laws.