Question 34

B: A state law establishes a higher minimum wage for men than for women.

This scenario clearly illustrates a violation of the Equal Protection Clause as it discriminates based on gender, providing unequal compensation for similar work.

A) A state law establishes a minimum driving speed on federal highways.

This option does not violate the Equal Protection Clause because establishing a minimum driving speed applies uniformly to all drivers, regardless of any protected characteristic. It is a public safety measure aimed at ensuring efficient traffic flow.

B) A state law establishes a higher minimum wage for men than for women.

This option is a direct violation of the Equal Protection Clause, as it discriminates against women by providing them with a lower minimum wage compared to men for the same work. Such discrimination based on gender is constitutionally impermissible.

C) A proposed constitutional amendment requires a minimum education level to serve as President.

This scenario does not inherently violate the Equal Protection Clause, as the requirement for a minimum education level applies equally to all individuals seeking the presidency, regardless of race, gender, or other protected characteristics. Such qualifications are permissible under the law.

D) A proposed constitutional amendment requires a minimum age to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court.

This option does not violate the Equal Protection Clause since it establishes an age requirement that applies equally to all potential nominees for the Supreme Court. Age limits are a standard practice in various legal contexts and do not discriminate against any protected group.

Conclusion

The correct answer, option B, is definitively a violation of the Equal Protection Clause due to its discrimination based on gender. In contrast, the other options do not display any discriminatory practices that would breach constitutional protections, as they apply uniformly or establish qualifications without singling out a specific group. Thus, the essence of equal protection under the law is compromised only in the case of unequal treatment based on gender.