Federalism

Federalism

A system of government where powers are divided between a central authority and constituent political units (states).

Division of Powers

The distribution of powers between the national government and the states, implied in the original constitution and specified in the 10th amendment.

Delegated Powers

Powers specifically granted to the national government by the Constitution.

Expressed/Enumerated Powers

Powers explicitly stated in the Constitution, primarily found in Article I, Section 8, and other sections.

Implied Powers

Powers not expressly stated in the Constitution but reasonably inferred from expressed powers, such as those in Article I, Section 8, Clause 18 (Necessary and Proper Clause).

Inherent Powers

Powers that the national government possesses simply by being a national government, often argued to be implied by expressed powers.

Powers Denied

Powers that the Constitution explicitly denies to the national government and states.

Reserved Powers

Powers that are not granted to the national government by the Constitution and are not denied to the states, as stated in the 10th amendment.

Exclusive Powers

Powers that can only be exercised by the national government and not by the states.

Concurrent Powers

Powers that are shared by both the national government and the states.

Supremacy Clause

Article VI, Section 2, which establishes that the Constitution, federal laws, and treaties are the supreme law of the land.

Republican Form of Government

A guarantee by the national government that each state will have a republican form of government, as found in Article IV.

Federal Grants-in-Aid

Federal funds provided to states for specific projects or programs, often with conditions attached.

Project Grants

Federal grants given for specific projects to states or localities.

Block Grants

Federal funds provided for broadly defined purposes, giving states more discretion in spending.

Categorical Grants

Federal funds allocated for specific, narrowly defined purposes, often with strict guidelines.

Interstate Compacts

Agreements between states, approved by Congress, to address shared issues or resources.

Full Faith and Credit

The constitutional requirement that states recognize the public acts, records, and judicial proceedings of other states.

Extradition

The legal process by which a fugitive from justice in one state can be returned to that state.

Privileges and Immunities Clause

Article IV, Section 2, which prohibits states from discriminating against citizens of other states.