Federalism and Grant Types: Key Concepts for U.S. Government

Block Grants

Money to states with few rules (more freedom).

Categorical Grants

Money for specific purposes (strict rules).

Charitable Grants

Funds for nonprofits or good causes.

Formula Grants

Given by set formula (population, income, etc.).

Grants-in-Aid

Any money from federal to state/local governments.

Project Grants

Given for specific projects (competitive).

Revenue Sharing

Federal money shared with no strings attached.

Tenth Amendment

Powers not given to feds = states' powers.

Sixteenth Amendment

Allowed federal income tax.

Federalism

Power shared between national and state governments.

Dual Federalism

"Layer cake" - state & federal stay separate.

The Frostbelt

Northeast/Midwest states (old industry).

The Sunbelt

South/West states (fast growth, new jobs).

New Deal

FDR's big government programs (1930s).

Great Society

LBJ's anti-poverty & social programs (1960s).

Delegated Powers

Powers given to federal government.

Implied Powers

Not written but necessary (Elastic Clause).

Reserved Powers

Powers kept by states (10th Amendment).

Enumerated Powers

Powers listed in the Constitution.

Federal Funding

Money given to states for programs/projects.

Article I, Section 10

Limits what states can do (no treaties, no own money, etc.).

Obligations of national gov. to states (Article IV)

Protect from invasion, Guarantee a republican (representative) government, Treat all states equally.

Two regulations tied to aid

Drinking age = 21 (for highway funds), Environmental or education standards.