New Federalism

Definition

New Federalism is a political philosophy that emphasizes the role of state and local governments in the federal system, promoting a decentralized approach to governance. It aims to shift power and responsibility away from the federal government and towards the states, fostering a more balanced and cooperative relationship between different levels of government.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. New Federalism emerged in the 1970s as a reaction to the perceived overreach and centralization of the federal government during the Great Society programs of the 1960s.
2. It aims to restore the balance of power between the federal, state, and local governments, giving states more autonomy and control over policy decisions that affect their residents.
3. New Federalism has led to the increased use of block grants, which provide states with more flexibility in how federal funds are allocated and spent.
4. The shift towards New Federalism has resulted in a greater emphasis on state and local government innovation, as they are encouraged to develop and implement policies that best suit their unique needs and circumstances.
5. Proponents of New Federalism argue that it fosters a more responsive and accountable system of governance, as state and local officials are closer to the people they serve and can better understand their needs.

Review Questions

• Explain how the concept of New Federalism has evolved the relationship between the federal government and state/local governments.
  • New Federalism has aimed to shift the balance of power in the federal system, granting more autonomy and responsibility to state and local governments. This has led to a more cooperative and decentralized approach to governance, where the federal government takes a step back and allows states and localities to develop and implement policies that best suit their unique needs and circumstances. This has fostered a greater emphasis on state and local innovation, as well as a more responsive and accountable system of governance, as officials closer to the people can better understand and address their concerns.
• Describe how the use of block grants has been a key feature of the New Federalism approach.
  • The increased use of block grants has been a hallmark of the New Federalism philosophy. Block grants provide states with lump-sum federal funding with fewer restrictions, allowing them more flexibility in how the funds are allocated and spent to address local priorities and needs. This shift away from categorical grants, which came with strict federal guidelines, has given states more autonomy in designing and implementing programs that best serve their constituents. The use of block grants has been seen as a way to devolve power and responsibility from the federal government to the states, fostering a more cooperative and decentralized approach to governance.
• Analyze the potential advantages and disadvantages of the New Federalism approach in the context of intergovernmental relationships and the overall functioning of the federal system.
  • The New Federalism approach aims to create a more balanced and cooperative relationship between the federal government and state/local governments. Potential advantages include increased responsiveness to local needs, greater innovation and experimentation at the state and local levels, and a more accountable system of governance. However, critics argue that the decentralization of power can also lead to disparities in the quality and availability of public services across different states, as well as a potential race to the bottom in terms of regulations and social welfare programs. Additionally, the shift towards New Federalism may reduce the federal government's ability to address national problems and ensure a baseline of equity and opportunity for all citizens, regardless of their state of residence. Ultimately, the success of New Federalism depends on striking the right balance between federal oversight and state/local autonomy to maintain a well-functioning and equitable federal system.

Related terms

Cooperative Federalism: A model of federalism that emphasizes collaboration and shared responsibilities between the federal, state, and local governments, rather than a strict separation of powers.

Devolution: The transfer of power, authority, and responsibility from the federal government to state and local governments, allowing them more autonomy in decision-making and policy implementation.

Block Grants: Lump-sum federal funding provided to states with fewer restrictions, allowing them more flexibility in how the funds are used to address local needs and priorities.