Borders and Immigration

The Constitution is the Solution

Constitution Study May 13, 2010

Can States seal their own borders?

To follow up on the discussion last week, based on Article I, Section 9, Clause 1 we determined it was in the original intent of the Constitution for the States to protect themselves from illegal immigration. But to what extent? And, as the discussion continued, the question was asked, “Can States seal their borders even to Americans from other states?

Article I, Section 9, Clause 1 reads: The Migration or Importation of such Persons as any of the States now existing shall think proper to admit, shall not be prohibited by the Congress prior to the Year one thousand eight hundred and eight. . .

Key Words: Migration, Importation, Persons, Prohibited, Congress, 1808.

Migration is a specific reference to immigration. Importation comes from the word Import, and something imported is a product. Since the word “persons” is used, the product is then people. What people were products? Slaves. This is why the clause nullified in 1808. It was the first step, the Founding Fathers believed, in abolishing slavery. On January 1, 1808, the importation of slaves was prohibited by Congress.

As for the question regarding stopping the migration of Americans from other states, Article 4, Section 2 gives us our answer:

“The Citizens of each State shall be entitled to all Privileges and Immunities of Citizens of several states.”

Article I, Section I establishes the federal powers.

“All legislative Powers herein granted shall be vested in a Congress of the United States, which shall consist of a Senate and House of Representatives.”

Key Words: herein, granted, vested, Congress of the United States.

“herein” - In this matter, In this book, Here In.

“granted” - Consent to fulfill, Give formally, transfer legally.

“vested” - bestow powers or authority.

“Congress of the United States” - Legislative Branch of the U.S. Federal Government.

The Constitution begins with the words, “We the People of the United States.” We the people are the ones granting the right to the federal government to existed. All of the powers and authorities to the federal government are contained within the Constitution as indicated by the word “herein.” The powers are given to the Congress of the United States, but are limited to only those listed as being powers granted in the United States Constitution.

The authorities of the federal government are enumerated carefully in Article I, Section 8, and any subsequent amendments that grant powers of the federal government. As per the Tenth Amendment, however, it must be understood that any power not granted to the federal government by the Constitution is a state authority.

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A Special Thanks to:

Faith Armory, 27498 Enterprise Cir W #2, Temecula, CA 92562

951-699-7500, www.faitharmory.com - For providing us with a classroom to meet in.

Clay Thibodeau for Congress - Boot Bono in the 45th District, www.clay4congress.com, for Donating Pocket Constitutions.

Political Pistachio.com for Donating Pocket Constitutions.