Federalism, Constitution, and Cannabis Policy

A set of vocabulary flashcards based on lecture notes covering concepts related to federalism, constitutional interpretation, and cannabis policy.

What is Federalism?

A system that divides power between national and state governments.

Laboratories of Democracy

The idea that states can experiment with policies that reflect local values and needs.

Unwritten Constitution

Norms, customs, and historical practices that influence constitutional interpretation beyond the written text.

Trajectory of Constitutional Amendments

The historical pattern where amendments generally expand liberty and equality.

Federal Supremacy

The principle that federal law prevails over state law when there is a conflict.

Incorporation

The process through which the Bill of Rights has been applied to state governments via the Fourteenth Amendment.

Bipartisan Support

Agreement or cooperation between two major political parties.

Sunrise Amendments

Reforms that take effect years after their passage to shield current politicians from backlash.

Cannabis Legalization

The process by which states have made marijuana use legal despite federal prohibition.

Electoral College

The body that formally elects the President and Vice President of the United States.

Majority Rule

The principle that the greater number should exercise greater power in decision-making.

Political Equality

The concept that all votes should carry the same weight in the electoral process.

Schedule I Drug

A classification for drugs that are considered to have no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse.

Bills of Rights

Lists of fundamental rights guaranteed to citizens, often found in both state and federal constitutions.

Interstate Commerce

Economic activity that crosses state lines, which federal law regulates extensively.

Cash-Only Operations

Business practices where no banking institutions are involved, often due to federal restrictions.

Public Health Rules

Regulations designed to protect the health of the public, often shaped by state law.

Naturalized Citizens

Individuals who have become citizens after birth, typically through a legal process.

Structural Injustices

Societal issues that are embedded in the political and legal systems, hindering equity and fairness.

Constitutional Change

The process of modifying the Constitution, which involves formal amendments or informal practices.

Federal Reforms

Changes to federal policies or structures, often inspired by successful state-level innovations.

Political Realism

An approach to politics that recognizes the complexities and constraints of the political landscape.

Historical Patterns

Recurring themes or trends in history that inform current political or legal frameworks.

Unequal Treatment

Disparities in the enforcement or application of laws across different states or groups.

Codification

The process of consolidating laws into a formal code or system.

Voting Power

The influence that an individual's vote has in the political process.