Article IV

Interstate Relations and Federalism

Overview

Article IV addresses the relationships between states and between states and the federal government. It establishes principles of federalism and ensures cooperation among states.

Section 1 - Full Faith and Credit

Each state must give "full faith and credit" to the public acts, records, and judicial proceedings of other states. Congress may regulate how such acts are proven and their legal effect.

Section 2 - State Citizenship and Extradition

Citizens of each state are entitled to privileges and immunities in all states
Fugitives from justice must be extradited to the state where the crime was committed
Escaped slaves must be returned (superseded by 13th Amendment)

Section 3 - New States and Territories

Congress may admit new states to the Union
New states cannot be formed from existing states without consent
Congress has power to make rules for U.S. territories and property

Section 4 - Republican Government

U.S. guarantees every state a republican form of government
U.S. will protect states against invasion
U.S. will protect states against domestic violence upon request