All states value their distinct approaches to policy and to life and the U.S. Constitution embeds the idea of state rights and responsibilities as a core principle in the federal system. California arguably takes this further than most. This paper provides a new way to think about how national policies might complicate or augment the next state…

A federal system is better than one that is totally nationalized or left totally in the hands of the states and their districts. The principle undergirding that system is appropriateness. Responsibilities most appropriately handled at the state level ought to rest at that level. Responsibilities best met by the resources and reach of the national…

The topic of state reappropriation of federal funds for higher education is addressed in this summary of a speech that sought to distinguish between reasonable program control by state legislatures and disruption of needed programs. The issue of a state legislature appropriating federal funds entering the state is before a number of legislatures.…

Argues that the Reagan Era's New Federalism hamstrings government by precluding the possibility of a balance of power and responsibilities between state and federal government. Compares this development to the states' rights dilemma freed by John C. Calhoun. Contends that history shows federal inaction produces sectionalism, social cleavage, and…

The influence of government on higher education in Ohio is discussed. In the context of the history and the current status of public and private higher education, the following two questions are considered: (1) How do state and federal student aid programs interact, and what is their effect on tuition policy? (2) Have decisions on higher education…

This congressional hearing, held at the Santa Fe (New Mexico) Indian School, addressed issues relating to the quality of education for American Indians. A central issue was a proposal transferring management of Indian schools from the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) to tribes or local governments. Statements from federal and local authorities…

This report states the positions and goals of the Council of Chief State School Officers relative to State-federal relationships. The report covers (1) the need for cooperative efforts in State-federal relationships, (2) the establishment of national goals and priorities, (3) the administration and services of the Office of Education, (4) the…

Jonathan Kozol challenges politicians of both parties to confront the economic and political issues that deprive the poor of equal education. Criticisms of current policies include the following: (1) dependence on property taxes penalizes the poor; (2) local control protects privilege and oppresses minorities; (3) education has been removed from…

Work requirements in welfare reform proposed by the George W. Bush administration would impose much tougher work requirements on welfare recipients. Seventy percent of all adults would be required to work 40 hours per week, versus the 50 percent who are required to work 30 hours per week currently. In addition, states would be given little leeway…

The 1996 welfare reform law--the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act--has contradictory aspects. It gives the states greatly increased fiscal flexibility and at the same time sets extensive and elaborate new behavioral requirements. The dynamics of welfare since the passage of the Social Security Act in 1935 have been…

Presents opposing viewpoints on federalism and state sovereignty. Charles J. Cooper argues for states powers based on a constructionist interpretation of the constitution. Herman Schwartz maintains that the national economy is so tightly intertwined, and the protection of civil liberties is too great to leave these functions to the states. (MJP)

Encapsulates a series of brief essays exploring different aspects of modern federalism. Issues include further protection of individual rights extended through state constitutions and federalism and the world economy. Authors include Robert F. Williams, Earl H. Fry, and Daniel J. Elazar. (MJP)