The Privileges & Immunities Clause is associated with preventing discrimination by states on what basis?

• A. Only prohibits discrimination against residents
• B. Applies only to aliens
• C. Article IV - prevents discrimination against non-residents
• D. Allows states to discriminate against non-residents in employment

Answer: (C)

The Privileges and Immunities Clause blocks states from treating citizens of other states differently from their own residents when it comes to fundamental rights or essential activities that are part of living in the United States. It sits in Article IV and targets discrimination based on non-residency, not simply on where someone lives.

That’s why the best answer is that this clause prevents discrimination against non-residents. It focuses on out-of-state citizens and their ability to exercise core rights and engage in basic economic activities, rather than on residents by themselves. It does not apply to aliens, and it does not give states a free pass to discriminate in employment or other areas unrelated to fundamental rights.