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Article VI: Supreme Law of the Land

Signed September 17, 1787 ยท in force from 1789

In plain English

Makes the Constitution, federal laws and treaties the 'supreme Law of the Land', above state laws. The new government takes on the old one's debts, all officials swear to support the Constitution, and no religious test can ever be required for public office.

Original text

All Debts contracted and Engagements entered into, before the Adoption of this Constitution, shall be as valid against the United States under this Constitution, as under the Confederation.

This Constitution, and the Laws of the United States which shall be made in Pursuance thereof; and all Treaties made, or which shall be made, under the Authority of the United States, shall be the supreme Law of the Land; and the Judges in every State shall be bound thereby, any Thing in the Constitution or Laws of any State to the Contrary notwithstanding.

The Senators and Representatives before mentioned, and the Members of the several State Legislatures, and all executive and judicial Officers, both of the United States and of the several States, shall be bound by Oath or Affirmation, to support this Constitution; but no religious Test shall ever be required as a Qualification to any Office or public Trust under the United States.

Plain-English summaries are simplified for learning. Courts interpret these words in detail; this is general information, not legal advice.

Source: National Archives