Which statement about equal protection standards is NOT correct?

Which statement about equal protection standards is NOT correct?

• A. Race classifications trigger strict scrutiny.
• B. Gender classifications trigger intermediate scrutiny.
• C. Age classifications trigger rational basis review.
• D. Economic status classifications trigger strict scrutiny.

Answer: (D)

Equal protection analysis uses a tiered scrutiny framework to judge government classifications. Race classifications are examined under strict scrutiny: the government must show a compelling interest and that the measure is narrowly tailored to achieve it. Gender classifications are reviewed with intermediate scrutiny: the law must be substantially related to an important government objective. Age classifications are generally evaluated under rational basis review: the classification need only be rationally related to a legitimate government interest. Economic status classifications do not belong to a suspect or quasi-suspect class and are typically reviewed under rational basis as well. They do not trigger strict scrutiny. So stating that economic status classifications trigger strict scrutiny is not correct. This aligns with the general rule that wealth-based distinctions are rarely, if ever, subjected to the highest level of scrutiny.

Equal protection analysis uses a tiered scrutiny framework to judge government classifications. Race classifications are examined under strict scrutiny: the government must show a compelling interest and that the measure is narrowly tailored to achieve it. Gender classifications are reviewed with intermediate scrutiny: the law must be substantially related to an important government objective. Age classifications are generally evaluated under rational basis review: the classification need only be rationally related to a legitimate government interest.

Economic status classifications do not belong to a suspect or quasi-suspect class and are typically reviewed under rational basis as well. They do not trigger strict scrutiny. So stating that economic status classifications trigger strict scrutiny is not correct. This aligns with the general rule that wealth-based distinctions are rarely, if ever, subjected to the highest level of scrutiny.