Compact Clause
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The compact clause refers to a provision, in Article I, Section 10, Clause 3, that forbids states from entering into alliances with other states or with foreign governments. It also forbids states from engaging in war without the consent of Congress.
[edit] Text
Article I, Section 10, Clause 3:
| “ | No state shall, without the consent of Congress, lay any duty of tonnage, keep troops, or ships of war in time of peace, enter into any agreement or compact with another state, or with a foreign power, or engage in war, unless actually invaded, or in such imminent danger as will not admit of delay. | ” |
[edit] History
The idea of allowing Congress to have say over agreements between states traces back to the numerous controversies that arose between various colonies. Eventually compromises would be created between the two colonies and these compromises would be submitted to the Crown for approval. After the Revolution, the Articles of Confederation allowed states to appeal to Congress to settle disputes between the states over boundaries or “any cause whatever.” The Articles of Confederation also required Congressional approval for “any treaty or alliance” in which a state was one of the parties.
There have been a number of Supreme Court cases, especially Virginia v. Tennessee, , concerning what constitutes valid congressional consent to an interstate compact.
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