What is the significance of Craig v. Boren for subsequent equal protection challenges?

• A. It introduced strict scrutiny for all classifications
• B. It eliminated judicial review of gender-based laws
• C. It established intermediate scrutiny for gender
• D. It established rational basis review for gender

Answer: (C)

Craig v. Boren established that gender-based classifications are reviewed under intermediate scrutiny: the law must serve an important governmental objective and be substantially related to achieving that objective. This sets a middle ground between rational basis review and strict scrutiny, recognizing sex classifications as more than a mere matter of general welfare but not as demanding as classifications based on race. The decision provides the framework courts use to evaluate laws affecting men and women, requiring a real and substantial link to legitimate objectives rather than a mere conceivable justification. It also influenced later cases to demand progressively stronger justification for gender-based distinctions, shaping how equal protection challenges involving sex are analyzed in education, employment, and other areas.