What is an example of a concurrent power?

Concurrent powers are those powers that are shared by both the federal government and the state governments. The ability to tax is a primary example of a concurrent power because both levels of government can levy taxes on individuals and businesses to generate revenue. This capacity allows both federal and state authorities to fund their operations and provide public services.

In differing situations, states can impose sales taxes, property taxes, income taxes, and various fees, while the federal government has the authority to collect income taxes, payroll taxes, and corporate taxes. This shared capability highlights the overlap in responsibilities and the necessity for cooperation between state and federal entities in governance.

The options that do not represent concurrent powers illustrate functions that are typically designated to either the federal or state level exclusively. For instance, the regulation of interstate commerce is primarily a power of the federal government, while declaring war and conducting foreign relations are powers reserved solely for the national government.