AP Gov: Federalism

Federalism

A system of government in which power is divided between a central authority (national) and constituent political units (states).

Exclusive powers

Powers that are delegated only to the federal government, such as coining money or declaring war. 

Reserved Powers

Powers not specifically granted to the federal government or denied to the states, which belong to the states according to the 10th Amendment. 

Concurrent Powers

Powers shared by both the federal and state governments, such as the power to tax or maintain courts.

Enumerated Powers

Powers explicitly listed in the Constitution (specifically Article I, Section 8) as belonging to the national government.

Implied Powers

Powers of the federal government that go beyond those enumerated in the Constitution, justified by the "Necessary and Proper Clause."

commerce clause

A constitutional clause giving Congress the power to regulate all business activities that cross state lines; often used to expand federal power.

Necessary and Proper (elastic) clause

Article I, Section 8, Clause 18, which gives Congress the authority to pass all laws "necessary and proper" for carrying out its enumerated powers

supremacy clause

The provision in Article VI of the Constitution stating that the Constitution and federal laws are the "supreme Law of the Land.

categorical grants

Federal grants that can be used only for specific purposes or "categories" of state and local spending, usually coming with "strings attached."

Block grants

Federal grants given to states to support broad programs (like community development) that allow states more discretion in how the money is spent

Mandates

Requirements imposed by the federal government on state and local governments, often requiring them to provide services or follow regulations (sometimes "unfunded").

Revenue sharing

A form of federal aid used from 1972 to 1986 where the federal government provided a portion of tax money to states with almost no strings attached.

Dual federalism

A system of government in which both the states and the national government remain supreme within their own spheres, each responsible for some policies.

Cooperative Federalism

A system of government in which powers and policy assignments are shared between states and the national government.