What test balances the government's interest in a law against an individual's constitutional rights affected by that law?

The compelling state interest test is a judicial standard used to determine when the government can restrict individual rights protected by the constitution. This test requires that the government demonstrate a compelling interest in enacting a law that affects individual rights and that the law is necessary to achieve that interest.

In practical terms, if a law infringes on constitutional rights, such as freedom of speech or religion, the court will look for a justification that is not only significant but also one that cannot be achieved by means that are less restrictive. This emphasizes the necessity of balancing the government's objectives against the rights of individuals, ensuring that any limitations on rights are justified by a substantial government interest that is imperative for the functioning of society or protection of its citizens.

This test is critical in areas involving fundamental rights, as it places a high burden on the government to justify the interference with those rights, ensuring that individual freedoms are not infringed upon without adequate justification.