What is one power of the federal government under the Constitution?

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Study for the Utah Citizenship Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

The federal government is granted the power to declare war under the Constitution. This authority is outlined in Article I, Section 8, where it specifically states that Congress has the power to declare war and regulate the armed forces. This power is significant because it allows the federal government to respond to threats to national security and engage with other nations on matters of conflict.

In contrast, the other options relate to powers that are typically managed at the state or local level. For instance, providing schooling and education is primarily the responsibility of state governments, which maintain public school systems and set educational policies. Similarly, issuing driver's licenses is also a state function, as states regulate transportation within their borders, defining the requirements for obtaining a license. Lastly, zoning and land use approvals fall under local government jurisdiction, which establishes regulations for how land can be used in specific areas.

Thus, declaring war is a distinctly federal power that illustrates the national government's role in managing defense and military affairs, distinguishing it from other responsibilities that are more localized.