What does the necessary and proper clause allow?

Answer 1

It allows the government to do things not listed in the constitution but are necessary and proper thing to do.

More specifically, it allows the Federal government all the power required to fulfill duties which are explicitly granted, even if those powers encompass things that weren't specifically mentioned. That is, if the Constitution states that the Federal government may (or must) do something, it also implicitly grants all the powers necessary to actually accomplish that explicit function.

For example, Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 (Taxing and Spending Clause) explicitly states that the Federal government can lay taxes on all citizens. It does NOT mention the IRS or any similar organization, but the Necessary and Proper Clause allow for the Federal government to create a tax bureau and have tax enforcement, as those are considered necessary for collection of taxes. A less obvious power related to the Taxing and Spending Clause is the ability of the Federal Government to run a National Bank (and have a National Mint).

Answer 2

This clause gives congress the flexibility to take action (by creating laws) regarding matters it believes to be necessary, even if the constitution does not specifically spell out every action congress is allowed to take. Found in Article One of the Constitution, the clause says "The Congress shall have Power ... To make all Laws which shall be necessary and proper for carrying into Execution the foregoing Powers, and all other Powers vested by this Constitution in the Government of the United States, or in any Department or Officer thereof."

Answer 3

U.S. Art. I, Sec. 8, Cl. 18, empowering congress to make all laws which shall be "necessary and proper" for carrying out to execution the enumerated powers of Congress.

Answer 4

Generally speaking it allows the Federal Government to pass laws that directly effect business and trade in the states.

Answer 5

implied powers

Answer 6

A basis for implied powers