In 2002, Congress passed the Body Armor Act that made it illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a violent felony to possess body armor.

Cedrick Alderman was convicted of violating the statute, and he then challenged the law’s constitutionality during appeal. Alderman contended that Congress had exceeded its authority because the law was not sufficiently related to interstate commerce.

CASE QUESTIONS 1. Is the Body Armor Act constitutional?

2. If Alderman purchased the body armor in the state where it was manufactured, how did his purchase affect “interstate”

commerce?

3. Suppose Congress enacts a prospective law prohibiting all private persons from purchasing or owning body armor in the future. In your opinion, would such a law be constitutional?