What does the Supremacy Clause establish?

The Supremacy Clause, found in Article VI, Clause 2 of the United States Constitution, establishes that federal laws have supremacy over state laws when there is a conflict between the two. This means that when state legislation contradicts federal legislation, the federal law prevails, making it the highest form of law within the territory of the United States. This principle is crucial in maintaining a uniform legal framework across the nation and ensuring that federal policies are consistently applied, regardless of individual state regulations.

This foundation is essential for the functioning of federalism, as it delineates the relationship between the national government and the states. By affirming that federal laws are the supreme law of the land, the Supremacy Clause provides clarity in legal disputes and reinforces the authority of the federal government to enact laws that apply to all states.