Fiveables 1.7

What is federalism?

Federalism is the constitutional arrangement that allocates sovereign powers between the federal government and individual states.

What does Article IV of the Constitution address?

It addresses relationships among states and between states and the federal government.

What is the Full Faith and Credit Clause?

It requires states to honor the legal decisions and public records of other states.

What is the Privileges and Immunities Clause?

It ensures that citizens of one state cannot be treated unfairly in another state.

What is the Extradition Clause?

It mandates that fugitives must be returned to the state where a crime was committed.

Who has the authority to admit new states to the Union?

Congress holds the authority to admit new states.

What are exclusive powers?

Powers that belong only to the federal government.

Give an example of an exclusive power.

Declaring war.

What are reserved powers?

Powers that belong only to the states, affirmed by the 10th Amendment.

Give an example of a reserved power.

Establishing schools.

What are concurrent powers?

Powers shared by both federal and state governments.

Give an example of a concurrent power.

Taxation.

What are implied powers?

Powers derived from the Necessary and Proper Clause not explicitly stated in the Constitution.

What is the significance of the 10th Amendment?

It affirms that powers not delegated to the federal government are reserved to the states or the people.

What did McCulloch v. Maryland (1819) uphold?

Implied powers and national supremacy.

What was the ruling of Gibbons v. Ogden (1824)?

It expanded federal control over interstate commerce.

What did United States v. Lopez (1995) limit?

The reach of the Commerce Clause, protecting state authority.

How did the 14th Amendment shift power?

It enabled federal courts to protect civil rights against state infringement.

What was the impact of the New Deal Era on federal power?

It greatly expanded federal regulatory authority.

What role do fiscal tools play in federal-state relations?

They shape federal-state relations through financial incentives and conditions.

What is block grant?

Federal funds with broad goals and few conditions, preferred by states.

What is a categorical grant?

Federal funding tied to specific purposes with detailed conditions.

What are mandates?

Federal requirements imposed on states, with or without funding.

What does federalism reflect in modern debates?

It reflects ongoing struggles over local autonomy, national standards, and individual rights.

How does federalism affect marijuana legalization?

Some states legalize it while federal law still bans it, raising enforcement questions.

What tensions did COVID-19 highlight in federalism?

Tensions over mask mandates, vaccine distribution, and emergency powers.

What aspect of election laws illustrates federalism?

States set election procedures, but federal legislation may intervene to prevent discrimination.

What is the Necessary and Proper Clause?

A constitutional provision allowing Congress to enact legislation needed to carry out its enumerated powers.