What is the Louisiana term for the powers of a state government?

In Louisiana, the term that best captures the powers of a state government is "police powers." This concept refers to the inherent authority of state governments to enact laws and regulations to promote and protect public health, safety, morals, and general welfare. Police powers are fundamental to the state’s ability to govern effectively and address the needs and interests of its citizens.

This authority is broad and encompasses various areas, including the ability to regulate land use, establish building codes, oversee public health initiatives, and maintain law and order. The term is recognized across the United States, and in the context of Louisiana law, it encapsulates the comprehensive regulatory framework that state governments operate within.

The other terms, while related to government authority, do not specifically define the powers exercised by the state in the same way. "Sovereign authority" typically refers to the overarching right of the state to govern itself and make decisions independently. "State rights" is often associated with claims to certain powers or privileges, particularly in historical contexts, but does not explicitly reference the active regulatory role of the state. "Regulatory powers" could imply aspects of enforcement but lacks the broader scope encapsulated by police powers, which include not just regulation but also the promotion of the welfare of the