State And Local Government Flashcards
Which is the best example of a concurrent power in our federal system?
Power to tax, both state and federal can do it
Which is the best example of a reserved power in our federal system?
Power to build local governments, states only.
Under the full faith and credit clause of the constitution, Arizona would have to
Recognize the civil laws (marriages) and acts of the other states.
What is the main reason why state constitutions are amended more often than the U.S. Constitution?
It is easier and state constitutions have many statutory laws
The Massachusetts constitution is unique in that it
Is the oldest constitution we use
How does fundamental law differ from statutory law
Fundamental set a basis for governmental law. Statutory laws are specific.
Compared to the U.S. Constitution, the average state constitution is
4 times longer
Which of the following actions is most likely to be specified by statutory law?
Setting specific taxes, requiring a license to sell products, etc.
Which of the following is likely to result from including statutory law in a state constitution?
Portions of the constitution become irrelevant
The position of lieutenant governor is comparable to that of what federal official?
Vice President
What are the two main types of state court?
Trial courts and appellate courts
Approximately what percent of U.S. court cases are handled by state and local courts?
99%
Which of the following are common characteristics of citizen legislatures?
Meet infrequently for short amounts of time, paid less, shorter terms, “part-time” job
How is Nebraska’s legislature unique?
Unicameral
In states with professional legislatures, which of the following statements is most likely to be true?
Meet annually most of the year, paid more, and “full-time” job
Which of the following offers the best example of how a state legislature might provide a check against a state’s executive branch?
Impeach an officer, or override a veto
Which of the following is a power held by many governors but not by president?
Line-item veto
Which of the following officials is often responsible for overseeing state elections?
Secretary of State
Which of the following is typically a responsibility of a state’s attorney general?
Acts as the state chief lawyer, provides legal advice.
Criminal cases involve laws related to
Public order
Which of the following state cases seems most likely to eventually reach the federal court system?
One that violates the federal laws of Bill of rights
In what circumstances may a case move from a state court system to the federal courts system?
If it deals with federal laws
Which of the following best illustrates a difference between federal and state judges
Federal judges are appointed. State judges can be elected or appointed.
Which of the following is a state responsibility?
Provide services