1. Federalism and Politics
Chapter 4 Section 4

2. Federalism and public policy
What is Policy?
Policy – a stated course of action for addressing certain problems or issues
It is defining an action in response to situation
Public policy is when gov’t settles on course of action
Ex. Immigration, defense, foreign, economic

3. States often promote experimentation in policy-making
Colorado first state to use sunset laws
Sunset laws is provision in a law that sets automatic end date for law
Lawmakers MUST review need, decide if continues past date
CA pioneered laws to control air pollution

4. Florida first in nation to pass sunshine law
Sunshine laws are open meeting laws, prohibiting public officials from holding closed meetings

5. Federalism and political parties
Rival parties key element to democratic gov’t
Federalism allows different parties to hold power
Federalism lessens risk of one-party holding monopoly on power

6. Political participation
Federalism increases opportunities for citizens to participate in politics
Citizens can work with special-interest groups to influence national policies, state and local gov’t agencies
Can impact policy

7. Federalism’s bureaucrats
Beginning in 1930s gov’t grew
Can you give reason why? (don’t write)
Called for great increase in federal programs
Bureaucracy is organization of gov’t administrators, carrying out legislation
Examples - ??? (You fill in)

8. Bureaucratic organizations like U. S
Bureaucratic organizations like U.S. Conference of Mayors formed to stay in touch with lawmakers

9. Differences among states
NOTE: Federalism allows for real economic and political differences among the states
Permits each state considerable freedom arranging own internal affairs (do you agree?)
Americans can choose arrange of conditions under want to live
May move because lower taxes, better schools

10. assignment Answer Q’s #2-5 on page 116 on HALF-SHEET
Due to Tray Tomorrow Beginning of Period