American Federalism

A set of flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to American Federalism.

Federalism

The sharing of power between federal and state governments.

Expressed Powers

Powers specifically granted to the national government by the Constitution.

Reserved Powers

Powers that are specifically reserved for the states under the 10th Amendment.

Concurrent Powers

Powers that are shared by both the federal and state governments.

National Supremacy Clause

Article VI of the Constitution stating that federal laws take precedence over state laws.

10th Amendment

The amendment that states powers not granted to the federal government nor prohibited to the states are reserved to the states.

Full Faith and Credit Clause

A clause requiring states to recognize the public acts, legal records, and court decisions of other states.

Dual Federalism

A system of government existing from 1789 to 1937 where powers were distinctly divided between federal and state governments.

Cooperative Federalism

A system during the New Deal era where federal funding encouraged states to implement federal policies.

Regulated Federalism

A form of federalism where Congress requires states to meet federal standards.

New Federalism

A model aimed at returning power to the states and reducing federal involvement in local affairs.

Block Grants

Federal funds provided to states for broad purposes, giving them more discretion in how to allocate funds.

Devolution

The transfer of responsibility from the federal government to state or local governments.

Unfunded Mandates

Regulations that require states to comply with federal laws without providing federal funds for implementation.

Public Welfare

Government efforts aimed at providing basic financial security and assistance to citizens.

Immigration Laws

Laws governing international movement of individuals into a country.

LGBT Civil Rights & Liberties

Legal protections and rights granted to individuals regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.