Gov Unit 3

What is a bureaucracy

The system that we use to implement policy. An organization set up in a logical and rational manner for the purpose of accomplishing specific functions. The system the government makes where the decisions made are put into effect.

What are the characteristics of an effective bureaucracy

1. Organized into subunits

2. Organized in hierarchical manner

3. A common set of rules for carrying out functions

4. Bureaucracies maintain good records, or "paper trails"

5. Characterized by an air of professionalism

6. The hiring and promotion process is merit-based

What does a bureaucracy do

1. Policy Implementation

2. Bureaucracy Legislation

3. Bureaucratic Adjudication

What is Policy Implementation

The process of carrying out laws, and the specific programs or services outlined in those laws

What is Bureaucracy Legislation

Decision-making on how to put a policy into place. Delegated from congress. Decide on details. Congress retains oversight power

What is Bureaucratic Adjudication

Determining the rights and duties of particular parties within the scope of an agencies rules or regulations. Acts as a judge.

How did the federal bureaucracy develope

How do we get control of growing bureaucracy

1. Privatization

2. Deregulation

3. Devolution

4. Reinventing Government

How is the federal bureaucracy organized

1. Cabinet Departments

2. Independent Agencies

3. Regulatory Agencies

What are Cabinet Departments

Federal agencies that qualify as the major administrative organizations of the executive branch. Ex. Secretary of Transportation

What are Independent Agencies

A department that focuses on a narrower set of issues than do higher-status cabinet members. Ex. NASA

Regulatory Agencies

A government body responsible for the control and supervision of a specified activity or area of public interest. Ex. Security and Exchange Commission

What is the Federal Workforce

1. Political Employees: Come and go based on their politics

2. Civil Service: Jobs are not dependent on their politics. Civil service helps implement bureaucratic policies.

What percent of the federal workforce is made up from civil service

85%

Examples of Civil Service workers

1. Postal Workers

2. Air Traffic Controllers