Conflicts between federal law and state law are resolved by recognizing that which law supersedes the other?

In the context of conflicts between federal law and state law, the principle that governs is known as the Supremacy Clause of the U.S. Constitution. This clause, found in Article VI, establishes that federal law takes precedence over state law when there is a conflict.

When a federal statute is enacted, it is considered the supreme law of the land, meaning that if a state law contradicts federal law, the federal law will override the state law. This ensures a uniform set of regulations and standards across the country, preventing states from enacting laws that could undermine federal objectives or create significant disparities in law enforcement and legal interpretations.

State laws would only be applicable in areas where federal law has not exercised its authority or where the federal law explicitly allows for state regulation. Thus, in cases of conflict, the determination is made in favor of federal law, affirming its role in maintaining a cohesive legal framework across all states.