An interstate compact differs fundamentally from a “uniform law” in its nature and application. Unlike uniform laws, which are not contractual in nature, interstate compacts are binding agreements between states. A state cannot selectively adopt provisions of an interstate compact or modify them to address only intra-state concerns. Additionally, once adopted, a state cannot unilaterally amend or repeal an interstate compact except as the language of the compact explicitly permits. See, e.g., West Virginia ex rel. Dyer v. Sims, 341 U.S. 22, 28 (1951); but see New York v. New Jersey 598 U.S. 218, 224–25 (2023) (allowing New Jersey to unilaterally withdraw from the Waterfront Commission of New York Harbor compact because the compact was silent about withdrawal).
