United States Government: Democracy in Action

Introduction
A federal system with two strong levels of government—national and state—provides opportunities for political participation, access to government leaders, and lessens the risk of one party having a monopoly of political power. Federalism, however, provides a "sibling rivalry" of debate over public policy. States want to decide their own policies. The national government also wants to steer policy. If the national government is successful at passing a policy, does it also provide funds to the states to implement that policy? What if that policy is a low priority for a state with a tight budget? In this activity, you will learn how the National Governors Association views these same types of questions.

Destination Title: Importance of Federalism

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Use the information you found to answer the following questions.

1			What are some powers barred to the states?
2			In what way is the federal government limited?
3			According to the document, why have the lines between state and federal power blurred?
4			What has hindered state and local flexibility in designing their own public policies?
5			Explain which level of government—national or state—you think should have control over the following activities: (a) performance standards for elementary and secondary schools, (b) the driving age, (c) seat belt laws, (d) speed limits, (e) the legal drinking age, (f) homeland security, (g) economic development, and (h) health care. Provide reasons for your responses, and determine whether you follow the position of Democrats or Republicans as discussed in Chapter 4.