The most deferential level of constitutional review, requiring only that a law be rationally related to a legitimate government purpose. It presumes laws are constitutional and places the burden on challengers to prove otherwise.
From Latin 'rationalis' (of reason) and 'basis' (foundation), combined with Old Norse 'test' (pot, trial). This standard developed in early 20th-century constitutional law as courts created a presumption of constitutionality for ordinary economic and social legislation.
The rational basis test is so deferential that courts will uphold laws even if the government's stated reason is pretextual, as long as any conceivable legitimate purpose exists! This 'rubber stamp' review reflects judicial restraint in areas like economic regulation, where courts defer to democratic processes unless fundamental rights or suspect classifications are involved.
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