What aspect does the 10th Amendment specifically protect?

The 10th Amendment specifically protects the rights of states to legislate and exercise powers that are not expressly granted to the federal government by the Constitution. It is part of the Bill of Rights and emphasizes the principle of federalism, which is the distribution of power between the national and state governments. By stating that powers not delegated to the United States are reserved to the states or the people, the amendment affirms that states have the authority to make their own laws and govern themselves within their respective jurisdictions, as long as those laws do not conflict with federal laws. This framework is critical for maintaining a balance of power and ensuring that states can address local matters effectively according to their unique needs and circumstances.