Chapter 21 Textbook Flashcards
Another way of referring to state and local governments. Through a process of reform, modernization, and changing intergovernmental relations since the 1960s, this has assumed new responsibilities and importance.
subnational governments
The power possessed by 42 state governors to veto only certain parts of a bill while allowing the rest of it to pass into law.
line-item veto
Often the second-highest executive official in state government, who is elected with the governor as a ticket in some states and is elected separately in others. She or he may have legislative and executive branch responsibilities
lieutenant governor
Method for selecting state judges in which governors appoint persons based on the recommendations of a committee. After serving a short term, the judge then often faces a retention election.
Merit Plan
Government controlled directly by citizens. In some US states, procedures such as the initiative, the referendum, and the recall give voters a direct impact on policymaking and the political process by means of the voting booth and can therefore be considered forms of direct democracy.
direct democracy
A process permitted in some states whereby voters may place proposed changes to state law on the ballot if sufficient signatures are obtained on petitions calling for such a vote
initiative
A state-level method of direct legislation that gives voters a chance to approve or disapprove legislation or a constitutional amendment proposed by the state legislature.
referendum
A procedure that allows voters to call a special election for a specific election for a specific official in an attempt to throw him or her out of office before the end of term
recall
The idea that local governments have only those powers that are explicitly given them by the states
Dillon’s Rule
An organizational statement and grant of authority from the state to a local government, much like a state or federal constitution.
local charter
The practice by which municipalities are permitted by the states to write their own charters and changed them without permission of the state legislatures, within limits
home rule
A special form of direct democracy under which all voting-age adults in a community gather once a year to make public policy.
town meeting
An official appointed by the city council who is responsible for implementing and administering the council’s actions
city manager
Councils in many areas of the country where officials from various localities meet to discuss mutual problems and plan joint, cooperative action.
council of governments
