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Simple English definitions for legal terms
rational-relationship test
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A quick definition of rational-relationship test:
A rational-relationship test is a way for judges to decide if a law is fair. If a law doesn't involve a really important right or group of people, the judge will look at whether the law makes sense and helps the government do its job. This is the easiest way for a law to pass the test. It's called "rational" because the judge just needs to see if there's a good reason for the law, not if it's perfect or the only way to do things.
A more thorough explanation:
The rational-relationship test is a criterion used in constitutional law to analyze a statute that does not involve a fundamental right or a suspect classification under the Due Process or Equal Protection Clause. The test requires that the court uphold a law if it has a reasonable relationship to the attainment of a legitimate governmental objective.
For example, if a state passes a law requiring all drivers to wear seat belts while driving, the rational-relationship test would be used to determine if the law is constitutional. The court would consider whether the law has a legitimate objective, such as promoting public safety, and whether the requirement to wear seat belts is reasonably related to that objective.
The rational-relationship test is the most deferential of the standards of review used in due-process and equal-protection analysis. It is also known as the rational-purpose test, rational-relationship test, minimum scrutiny, or minimal scrutiny.