Public Policy

Economic Policy U.S. is a mixed Economy Laissez-faire – Government should not interfere with the economy. Keynesian Economics says that government should spend more money to help the economy Supply-side economics says the government should cut taxes to help the economy.

Economic Policy Fiscal Policy – Creating the budget, taxing, and spending Monetary Policy – Handled by the Federal Reserve. This is the regulation of the interest rates of banks, and the size of the money supply.

Trade Policy WTO – World Trade Organization – made up of 125 countries, and work to create low tariffs. North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA)- Free trade agreement between U.S. Mexico, and Canada.

Domestic Policy Social Insurance programs – Entitlement programs – Money you get because you pay into them like social security Public Assistance programs – Means Tested programs – Welfare programs that you must qualify for such as food stamps.

Social Security The largest part of our federal budget You receive money when you reach 65. Social Security keeps up with inflation through COLA. Medicare – Government healthcare to those over 65. Medicaid – Government healthcare for the poor.

10 U.S. Patriot Act (2001) Authorized searches of a home or business without the owner’s or the occupant’s permission or knowledge Increases the ability of law enforcement agencies to search telephone, e-mail communications, medical financial, and other records. Designed to prevent terrorism

9 No Child Left Behind Act (2001) Requires states to set standards and measurable goals to improve outcomes in educations. Dramatic expansion of the federal governments role in education

8 Welfare Reform Act (1996) Increased the power of the states relative to the federal government Changed welfare grants to block grants An example of devolution because it gives states greater control over federal money

7 Americans with Disabilities Act (1990) Requires people to implement reasonable accommodations for the disabled. Bans discrimination based on disability.

6. Federation Election Campaign Act Created Federal Election Commission Provided full public financing in general elections Tightened reporting requirements for campaign contributions.

5. Budget and impoundment control act of 1974 Created the Congressional Budget office Established a budget process that sets overall limits of revenues and expenditures.

4 The War Powers Resolution 1973 Congress has greater control over military forces Requires the president to notify congress within 48 hours of sending military forces into combat. Requires the president to bring troops home after sixty days if congress has voted against actions.

3. Clean Air Act (1970) Established national air quality standards

2. Voting Rights Act (1965) Outlawed literacy tests and other discriminatory practices. Provided oversight of voter registration

1 Civil Rights Act (1964) Ended Segregation Banned discrimination Created the Equal Employment Opportunity commission

Also Brady Bill – All people purchasing guns must submit to a background check. This was declared unconstitutional because it is up to the states to decide gun laws. NRA campaigned against this bill.