The Federal Government and the States

Invasion and Internal Disorder

The federal government must protect each state against invasion. It also guarantees protection against internal disorder.

The federal government only steps in rarely, by a request from governor or legislature, national laws or broken, or national functions are interfered with.

Admitting New States

Only Congress can admit new States. They cannot be created by unwillingly taking territory from other states.

Process

  1. State asks Congress for permission
  2. Congress asks the people of the territory to propose a State constitution
  3. Congress admits the new state

Conditions

Each state should enter on equal footing, and they cannot compromise the independence of a State to manage its own affairs.

Grants

Grants federal money to state and local governments. It promotes cooperative federalism, where the national government helps the states.

Block Grants

Made for more broadly designed purposes, with fewer strings attached. States have a greater freedom in deciding how and on what to spend block grant dollars.

Project Grants

Funds specific projects or the delivery of specific services for a fixed period of time.

Categorical Grants

Made for specific, clearly defined purposes. Strings are attached for State as determined by the federal government. States use the federal money only for the specific purpose involved.

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