State and Local Government

Federalism

a system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and smaller political units such as states 

ratify

to approve or confirm officially, especially by vote 

municipality

a city of town that has its own government

legislator

An elected official who makes laws and represents constituents in a legislative body.

constituent

a voter who is represented by an elected official 

property tax

A tax levied on real estate based on the value of the property owned, often used to fund local services and infrastructure.

sales tax

A consumption tax imposed on the sale of goods and services, usually added at the point of purchase to fund state and local government services.

income tax

A tax imposed on individuals or entities based on their income or profits.

Speaker of the House

Leader of the Georgia House of Representatives, responsible for presiding over sessions, managing legislative business, and representing the House.

Lieutenant Governor

Leader of the Georgia Senate and serves as the second-in-command in the state government, acting as a tie-breaking vote in the Senate and succeeding the Governor if necessary.

Georgia Supreme Court

Rules on issues of constitutionality and interprets state laws, serving as the highest appellate court in Georgia.

felony

a serious crime typically punishable by imprisonment for more than one year or by death.

misdemeanor

a crime less serious than a felony, typically punishable by less than one year in jail or fines.