What does the Supremacy Clause state regarding conflicting laws?

The Supremacy Clause of the United States Constitution establishes that federal law takes precedence over state and local laws when there is a conflict. This means that if state laws are found to be in contradiction with federal laws, the federal laws will prevail. This principle is rooted in the structure of the Constitution, which aims to create a uniform legal framework across the country, ensuring that federal authority is recognized and enforced even in the presence of differing state regulations.

In practical terms, this clause is fundamental for maintaining order and consistency in the application of law. It provides clarity for legal interpretations and ensures that individuals are subject to the same federal laws regardless of the state they are in. Thus, when teaching about the Supremacy Clause, it is crucial to understand its role in the relationship between different levels of government and the prioritization of laws, highlighting why the assertion that federal law generally overrules state and local law is accurate.