Question

question 17 (multiple choice worth 3 points)
(02.08r mc)

how are disputes between states resolved?

• the governors of each state meet to negotiate an agreement.
• the state courts hear the dispute first to see if it can be resolved.
• the president meets with each governor to resolve the issue.
• the federal court hears the dispute first to act as the mediator.

Explanation:

Identify the constitutional mechanism for interstate disputes

Under Article III, Section 2 of the United States Constitution, the federal judicial power extends to controversies between two or more states.

Determine the court with jurisdiction

The Supreme Court of the United States has original and exclusive jurisdiction over all controversies between two or more states. Therefore, these disputes must be heard first in the federal court system rather than state courts or executive mediation.

Evaluate the given options

• Option 1: Governors negotiating is not the formal legal resolution mechanism.
• Option 2: State courts do not have jurisdiction over disputes between sovereign states.
• Option 3: The president does not resolve legal disputes between states.
• Option 4: The federal court system (specifically the Supreme Court) hears the dispute first.

Answer:

• The governors of each state meet to negotiate an agreement.
• The state courts hear the dispute first to see if it can be resolved.
• The president meets with each governor to resolve the issue.
• The federal court hears the dispute first to act as the mediator. (Correct answer)