The Enumerated Powers Act is a proposed piece of legislation in the United States Congress aimed at reinforcing constitutional limits on federal power by requiring that every bill introduced in Congress include a specific statement citing the constitutional authority under which it is enacted. This measure seeks to curb perceived federal overreach by compelling lawmakers to justify new laws explicitly within the enumerated powers outlined in Article I, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitution, such as taxing, regulating commerce, coining money, and declaring war, while avoiding broader interpretations like the general welfare clause or implied powers derived from the Necessary and Proper Clause. First introduced by Republican Congressman John Shadegg in the 104th Congress (1995-1996), the bill has been reintroduced multiple times without passing into law, reflecting ongoing debates about the scope of federal authority versus states' rights. In the 105th Congress (1997-1998), the House of Representatives adopted a rule incorporating a similar requirement for bills to cite constitutional authority, but this was later relaxed. Proponents, often from conservative and libertarian circles, argue it promotes fiscal responsibility and adherence to originalist interpretations of the Constitution, while critics contend it could hinder effective governance by overly restricting Congress's flexibility under clauses like the Commerce Clause. The proposal remains a symbolic effort in constitutional reform debates, with no successful enactment to date.