What is the 'supremacy clause'?

The supremacy clause is a foundational aspect of the U.S. Constitution, specifically located in Article VI, Clause 2. It establishes that federal laws and treaties take precedence over state laws when there is a conflict. This means that if a state law contradicts a federal law, the federal law prevails, effectively ensuring a uniform legal framework across the entire country. The supremacy clause is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the federal system, as it prevents states from enacting laws that would undermine federal authority or create inconsistencies in the application of national laws. This principle is vital in upholding the rule of law and ensuring that individuals and entities across different states are treated equally under federal legislation.

Considering the other options, while states can create their own laws, these laws must not conflict with federal statutes due to the supremacy clause. The clause does not specifically pertain to permitting judicial reviews of state laws, nor does it exist to protect individual state rights; rather, it emphasizes the authority of federal legislation over state legislation.