american national government ch 5

bureaucracy

a system of government or organization where decisions are made and carried out by specialized officials following fixed rules and procedures.

patronage

the giving of jobs, favors, or support to friends, allies, or loyal followers, often as a reward for their loyalty.

spoils system

the practice of giving government jobs and rewards to political supporters and friends after winning an election.

pendleton act

law that established a merit-based system for hiring and promoting federal employees, reducing political influence in government jobs.

civil service system

merit-based process for hiring and promoting government employees to ensure competence and fairness rather than political favoritism.

civil service reform act of 1978

law that modernized the federal workforce by creating agencies to oversee merit-based hiring, protect employee rights, and improve government efficiency.

office of personnel management

a federal agency that manages the hiring, training, and benefits of government employees and ensures a merit-based civil service.

cabinet departments

major executive branches of the federal government, each headed by a secretary, that carry out specific areas of national policy and administration.

independent executive agencies

are government organizations that operate outside the Cabinet departments and focus on specific functions or services under the president’s direct control.

CIA

NASA

EPA- environmental protection agency

federal regulatory agencies

government bodies that create and enforce rules to protect the public and oversee specific industries or economic activities.

government corporations

agencies run by the government that provide services similar to those offered by private businesses. They often charge fees for their services but exist to serve the public’s needs rather than make a profit.

administrative procedures act

law that outlines how federal agencies create and enforce rules and regulations. It ensures transparency, allows public input, and protects citizens’ rights during the rule-making process.

administrative adjudication

law that sets the rules and processes federal agencies must follow when creating and enforcing regulations. It ensures transparency, public participation, and fairness in government decision-making.

office of management and budget

federal agency that helps the president prepare the national budget and oversees how executive agencies spend funds. It also reviews regulations, policies, and programs to ensure they align with the president’s priorities.

congressional budget office

nonpartisan agency that provides Congress with economic data and cost analyses of proposed legislation. It helps lawmakers make informed decisions about federal spending, taxes, and the overall budget.

government accountability office

independent agency that audits and evaluates how the federal government spends taxpayer money. It helps ensure government programs are efficient, effective, and following the law.