rational basis test

Main Entry: rational basis test
Function: noun
: a test less intensive than strict scrutiny or an intermediate review that involves a determination of whether a statutory or regulatory classification of persons (as by age or offender status) has a rational basis and does not deny equal protection under the Constitution rational basis test is applied —Charlton v. Kimata, 815 Pacific Reporter, Second Series 946 (1991)> called also rational relationship test