What does the 10th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution address?

The 10th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution addresses the rights reserved to the states or the people. This amendment emphasizes the principle of federalism, which is the division of powers between the national and state governments. It states that any powers not specifically delegated to the federal government by the Constitution, nor prohibited to the states, are reserved for the states or the people.

This provision serves as a constitutional assurance that states maintain their authority and autonomy in areas not expressly governed by federal law. It reflects the founding fathers' intention to limit the reach of federal government powers and ensures that states have the ability to govern themselves in many matters.

This acknowledgment is crucial in maintaining a balance of power and protecting individual liberties at both the state and local levels. By reserving certain powers, the 10th Amendment plays a significant role in the ongoing discussions and interpretations surrounding states’ rights versus federal authority.