What term refers to the belief that Congress can use the Elastic Clause to create government programs?

The term that refers to the belief that Congress can use the Elastic Clause to create government programs is "Loose Construction." This concept is rooted in the idea that the Constitution is not a rigid document and that its interpretation can evolve to meet the needs of society. The Elastic Clause, also known as the Necessary and Proper Clause, allows Congress to enact laws that are needed to carry out its enumerated powers, which supports a broader interpretation of the powers granted to the federal government.

Supporters of Loose Construction argue that this flexibility is necessary for Congress to effectively respond to new challenges and issues, enabling the government to adapt and create programs that benefit the public. This interpretation is often employed to justify a range of federal initiatives, from social programs to economic regulations, thereby influencing the expansion of governmental roles and responsibilities over time. Conversely, Strict Construction advocates emphasize a more limited view of federal powers, arguing that Congress should only exercise those expressly set forth in the Constitution without broad expansion.