Foley v. Connelie

Citation

435 U.S. 291 (1978)

Facts

Stub — to be completed.

Issue

Stub — to be completed.

Holding

Stub — to be completed.

Rule

States may restrict certain governmental positions — particularly those involving policymaking or the exercise of important governmental functions (the “political function” exception) — to citizens, even though alienage is normally subject to strict scrutiny; a state may bar aliens from serving as state troopers.

Significance

Establishes the “political function” exception to strict scrutiny for alienage classifications; police officers exercise core governmental authority and states may limit such positions to citizens.

Courses