What does the supremacy clause in Article VI mean for state laws?

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constitution Original copy of the Constitution of the United States of America, housed in the National Archives in Washington, D.C.

The supremacy clause, found in Article VI of the U.S. Constitution, establishes that the Constitution, federal laws made in pursuance of it, and treaties constitute the supreme law of the land.12

For state laws, this means that they cannot conflict with the federal Constitution or valid federal statutes. The clause explicitly mandates that judges in every state are bound by this supreme law, regardless of any provisions in a state's own constitution or laws to the contrary. Consequently, if a state law contradicts federal authority or preempts areas regulated by Congress—such as certain aspects of interstate commerce—the federal law takes precedence. This principle ensures the uniformity and authority of the national government within its delegated powers.12