Federalism and Its Tools

This set of flashcards covers key concepts related to federalism and its tools, including definitions and explanations of various forms of power distribution and financial mechanisms.

Federalism

A system where power is constitutionally divided between different levels of government.

Enumerated Powers

Explicit powers granted to the U.S. federal government, primarily Congress, by the Constitution.

Exclusive/Delegated Powers

Specific authorities granted only to the U.S. federal government by the Constitution.

Reserve Powers

Powers held by a head of state or a level of government, such as state governments.

Concurrent Powers

Powers shared by both the federal and state governments in a federal system.

Dual Federalism

A system where federalists have distinct and separate powers.

Cooperative Federalism

A system where federalists and states share powers and responsibilities.

Regulatory Federalism

A system where federalists directly intervene in state and local affairs.

New Federalism

A system aiming to return power to state governments, also referred to as devolution.

Mandates

An official order or commission to do something.

Categorical Grants

Funds issued by the U.S. Congress to state and local governments for specific purposes.

Block Grants

Fixed sums of federal money given to state and local governments for broad purposes.

Revenue Sharing

Agreement to split a venture's total income (gross revenue) among parties involved.

Preemption

A legal principle where a higher authority's law overrides conflicting laws from a lower authority.