Chapter 3: Federalism

Federalism

Government authority shared by the national and state governments

Necessary and Proper Clause

Allows Congress the ability to make laws or to act where the constitution doesn't give it authority to act

Nullification

A state can declare a federal law void if they think it violates the Constitution. Civil war put an end to this doctrine.

Dual Federalism

Powers between the national and state governments are clearly defined and seperate (layered cake).

Cooperative Federalism

Powers between the national and state governments are shared in many areas (marble cake).

Laboratories of Democracy

Different states can be like “labs” where they implement different policies, and if they are successful they will spread

Initiative

Legislative measures can be directly on ballots if voters get enough signatures on a petition.

Referendum

Voters can reject a measure adopted by a legislature

Recall

Voters can remove an elected official, if enough signatures are on petition

Grants in aid

Money that the national government gives to the states

Categorical Grants

Federal grants for a specific purpose

Conditions of Aid

Terms set by the federal government that states need to meet if they want to receive federal funds

Mandates

Terms set by the federal government that states need to meet whether or not they accept federal grants

Waiver

A decision by an administrative agency granting a party permission to violate a law.

Devolution

Transfer of power of the national government to the state government