Which clause prohibits retroactively impairing contractual rights?

Which clause prohibits retroactively impairing contractual rights?

• A. Commerce Clause
• B. Contract Clause
• C. Bill of Attainder
• D. Enabling Clause

Answer: (B)

The main idea here is protecting contract rights from retroactive interference by the state. The Contract Clause does exactly that: it bars states from passing laws that retroactively impair the obligations of contracts, preserving the terms and expectations that existed when the agreement was formed. It’s a constitutional guardrail specifically aimed at state action that would weaken contractual duties or rights after the fact. Other options address different powers or rules. The Commerce Clause deals with regulating interstate commerce, not protecting contract terms. A Bill of Attainder targets punishment of individuals or groups without trial, which isn’t about contracts. The Enabling Clause relates to other legal and civil rights issues and does not pertain to preventing retroactive impairment of contractual obligations.

The main idea here is protecting contract rights from retroactive interference by the state. The Contract Clause does exactly that: it bars states from passing laws that retroactively impair the obligations of contracts, preserving the terms and expectations that existed when the agreement was formed. It’s a constitutional guardrail specifically aimed at state action that would weaken contractual duties or rights after the fact.

Other options address different powers or rules. The Commerce Clause deals with regulating interstate commerce, not protecting contract terms. A Bill of Attainder targets punishment of individuals or groups without trial, which isn’t about contracts. The Enabling Clause relates to other legal and civil rights issues and does not pertain to preventing retroactive impairment of contractual obligations.