State and Local Government in Relation to the Federal Government
The student will write a 3-4 page essay describing the technical details associated with the governing concept that exists at the state and local level, and how that concept interacts with the federal government. This will be done in the context of explaining how a dual federal system works on paper and how our system of federalism today. Is there a difference? Does dual federalism accurately describe the system we have today? Or has our original form been hijacked by something else?
When writing the essay, it should be double-spaced and, if typed, in a 12-point font. Handwritten work is perfectly fine as long as it is double-spaced and can be scanned/faxed. Do keep in mind that, on average, a typed, double-spaced paper with 12-point font usually takes 320 – 340 words/page.
The first and main portion of the paper will involve a general explanation of the relationship between the different levels of state and local government. The relationship will build to the federal level and how it interacts with state government. Describe potential pitfalls and issues, if they apply, that can disrupt, or even take down the process.
The last part of the paper is dedicated to your opinion of how you think state and local government here in Texas is operating under contemporary federalism. Are their efforts in sync with the concept of federalism? In your opinion, how well does it work? If it does not work, then what could make it better? Are there improvements needed and where? Is the federal involvement in state affairs too much, not enough, or just right? If you believe there is a better system then what is it and why?
Please provide a separate page with works cited in the preparation of the paper. The works cited page does not count as one of the pages for the essay size. Though not necessary, a cover sheet with title, class, and name may be used. Due to the current state of operations, the essay must be submitted electronically.