Unit 09 Study Guide: STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT (KEY)

Flashcards created from the lecture notes on Virginia's state and local government structure and functions.

Bicameral

Refers to a legislature consisting of two chambers.

General Assembly

Virginia's legislative branch responsible for making state laws.

Governor

The head of the executive branch of Virginia’s state government.

Veto

The power of the governor to reject legislation passed by the General Assembly.

Lieutenant Governor

The official who presides over the Virginia Senate.

Attorney General

Virginia’s chief legal officer.

Bureaucracy

A system made up of agencies, boards, and commissions that support the executive branch.

Ordinances

Local laws passed by local governments.

Dillon’s Rule

The principle that local governments only have the powers granted by the state.

Partisan Offices

Political offices associated with a specific political party.

Nonpartisan Offices

Political offices that do not list party affiliation on the ballot.

Checks and Balances

A system that prevents any one branch of government from gaining too much power.

Judicial Review

The ability of courts to evaluate the constitutionality of laws.

Citizens' Advocacy

The act of individuals influencing government and policy through various means.

Supermajority

A requirement for a greater than simple majority, often needed to override a veto.

Local Governments

Structures that administer local services, including cities, counties, and towns.