Concurrent powers are powers in nations with a
federal system of government that are shared by both the federal government and each constituent political unit (such as a state or province). These powers may be exercised simultaneously within the same territory, in relation to the same body of citizens, and regarding the same subject-matter. Concurrent powers are contrasted with
states' rights (not possessed by the federal government) and with
exclusive federal powers (possession by the states is forbidden or requires federal permission).