Which constitutional clause requires states to apply laws equally and forbids discrimination?

• A. Equal Protection Clause
• B. Due process
• C. Self-incrimination
• D. Prosecute

Answer: (A)

Equal protection under the law is the idea that states must apply laws equally and cannot discriminate. The Equal Protection Clause, part of the Fourteenth Amendment, requires state governments to treat people in similar situations alike and to avoid laws or enforcement that target a group without a good reason. This ensures laws are applied uniformly and that discriminatory state action is unconstitutional. This differs from due process, which concerns fair procedures and protecting fundamental rights in legal proceedings, while self-incrimination is a separate Fifth Amendment protection; simply “prosecuting” isn’t a constitutional clause.