Gov 4 Textbook

Gov 4.pdf

Vocabulary

A system of government in which power is divided by a written constitution between a central government and regional governments. As a result, two or more levels of government have formal authority over the same geographic area and people. a

EXPRESSED POWERS

Powers specifically granted to the federal government by the Constitution. For example, the Constitution gives Congress the power to coin money, impose taxes, and regulate interstate commerce. Expressed powers are also called enumerated powers.

IMPLIED POWERS

Powers of the federal government that go beyond those enumerated in the Constitution. Implied powers are derived from the elastic or necessary and proper clause.

RESERVED POWERS

Powers not specifically granted to the national government or denied to the states. Reserved powers are held by the states through the Tenth Amendment.

COOPERATIVE FEDERALISM

Situations in which the national and state governments work together to complete projects. Also called fiscal federalism.

CATEGORICAL GRANT

Funds provided for a specific and clearly defined purpose.

BLOCK GRANT

Funds granted to the states for a broadly defined purpose. Because block grants shift resources from the federal government to the states, they contribute to the growing number of state and local government employees.

MANDATES

Rules telling states what they must do to comply with federal guidelines. Unfunded mandates require state and local governments to provide services or comply with regulations without the provision of funds.

DEVOLUTION

A movement to transfer the responsibilities of governing from the federal government to state and local governments.