VOCAB TERMS

Writing/Enforcing Regulations

The process through which government entities create and implement rules that dictate the conduct of individuals and businesses to ensure compliance with the law.

Issuing Fines

The act of levying financial penalties against individuals or organizations for violations of laws or regulations.

Compliance Monitoring

The system of tracking and assessing whether individuals and organizations adhere to established laws and regulations.

Testifying before Congress

The process by which individuals or officials present information and answer questions in front of congressional committees.

Political Patronage

The practice of providing government jobs or favors to political supporters or allies.

Civil Service

A body of government officials who are employed in civil jobs and are selected based on merit rather than political affiliation.

Merit System Reforms

Changes aimed at ensuring that government positions are filled based on individual qualifications and performance, rather than political connections.

Pendleton Act

A federal law enacted in 1883 that established the principle of federal employment based on merit rather than political affiliation.

Hatch Act

A United States federal law that restricts political activities of federal employees to promote a nonpartisan government.

Professionalism

The competence or skill expected of a professional, often associated with ethical standards and specialized knowledge.

Specialization

The process of focusing on a specific area of expertise within government roles, enhancing efficiency and effectiveness.

Neutrality

The principle of impartiality in government practices, ensuring fairness and avoiding favoritism.

Policy Implementation

The execution of government decisions and policies, translating them into actions and outcomes.

Discretionary Authority

The ability of bureaucrats to make choices in the interpretation and enforcement of laws and regulations.

Rule-Making Authority

The power granted to administrative agencies to create rules and regulations within the framework of existing laws.

Committee Hearings

Meetings held by congressional committees to gather information, conduct investigations, or oversee the executive branch.

Power of the Purse

The constitutional ability of Congress to control government spending and taxation.

Executive Authorization

The approval granted by the executive branch to implement policies or use funds, often requiring legislative support.

Executive Appropriation

The allocation of funds by the executive branch for government operations, often specified in the budget.

Iron Triangles/Issue Networks

The stable, mutually beneficial relationships among agencies, congressional committees, and interest groups that influence policy.

Dept. of State

The executive department responsible for international relations and foreign affairs of the United States.

Dept. of Treasury

The department responsible for managing the government's finances, including revenue collection and debt management.

Dept. of Defense

The department responsible for coordinating and supervising all agencies and functions related to national security and military.

Dept. of Homeland Security

The department responsible for protecting the United States from threats and managing responses to emergencies.

Dept. of Transportation

The department that oversees national transportation policies and systems, including highways and public transit.

Dept. of Veterans Affairs

The department that provides vital services to the nation's veterans, including health care and benefits.

Dept. of Education

The department responsible for national policies and programs that promote education and administer federal funding.

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

An independent agency of the federal government established to protect human health and the environment.

Federal Elections Commission (FEC)

An independent regulatory agency charged with enforcing federal campaign finance laws.

Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)

A government agency that regulates securities markets and protects investors by ensuring fair and efficient markets.

Federal Reserve Board

The governing body of the Federal Reserve System that oversees monetary policy in the United States.