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Simple English definitions for legal terms
Privileges or Immunities Clause
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A quick definition of Privileges or Immunities Clause:
The Privileges or Immunities Clause is a part of the United States Constitution that says state laws cannot take away the rights and freedoms of American citizens. However, this clause was made less important by a Supreme Court decision in 1873. It is important to remember that all citizens should be treated fairly and equally under the law.
A more thorough explanation:
The Privileges or Immunities Clause is a part of the United States Constitution's Fourteenth Amendment, which prohibits state laws that limit the privileges or immunities of U.S. citizens.
For example, if a state passed a law that prevented citizens from practicing their religion, that law would be unconstitutional because it would violate the Privileges or Immunities Clause.
However, the Supreme Court effectively nullified this clause in the Slaughter-House Cases in 1873. Since then, the Due Process Clause and the Equal Protection Clause have been used to protect citizens' rights.
Overall, the Privileges or Immunities Clause was intended to ensure that all U.S. citizens have equal rights and protections under the law, regardless of which state they live in.