11.1 Models of Intergovernmental Relations

Intergovernmental relations in the US have evolved from a strict separation of powers to more complex models of shared responsibilities. These models shape how federal, state, and local governments interact, cooperate, and sometimes clash over policy areas and authority.

The dynamics between government levels are influenced by political, economic, and social factors. Understanding these models and influences is crucial for grasping how policies are made and implemented across different levels of government in the American federal system.

Models of Intergovernmental Relations

Models of intergovernmental relations

Top images from around the web for Models of intergovernmental relations

• 

  The Division of Powers – American Government (2e) View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Intergovernmental Relations - Federalism in America View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Federalism: Basic Structure of Government | United States Government View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  The Division of Powers – American Government (2e) View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Intergovernmental Relations - Federalism in America View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

Top images from around the web for Models of intergovernmental relations

• 

  The Division of Powers – American Government (2e) View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Intergovernmental Relations - Federalism in America View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Federalism: Basic Structure of Government | United States Government View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  The Division of Powers – American Government (2e) View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Intergovernmental Relations - Federalism in America View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

• Coordinate authority model maintains distinct separation of powers between federal, state, and local governments, with each level having its own sphere of authority and limited interaction and cooperation between levels (dual federalism)
• Overlapping authority model involves shared powers and responsibilities between federal, state, and local governments, increased interaction and cooperation between levels, but also potential for conflict and competition over policy areas (cooperative federalism)
• Inclusive authority model positions the federal government as the dominant authority, with states and local governments as subordinate units implementing and administering federal programs and policies (creative federalism)

Evolution of intergovernmental relations

• Dual federalism (late 18th century - early 20th century) maintained strict separation of powers between federal and state governments with limited federal involvement in state and local affairs
• Cooperative federalism (1930s - 1960s) saw increased federal-state cooperation and shared responsibilities, expansion of federal grants-in-aid programs (New Deal), and growth of federal power and influence over states
• Creative federalism (1960s - 1970s) brought further expansion of federal grants and programs, direct federal-local relationships bypassing states (Great Society), and increased federal mandates and regulations on states and localities
• New federalism (1980s - present) has involved efforts to decentralize power and return authority to states, reduction of federal grants and programs (Reaganism), and emphasis on state and local innovation and experimentation (welfare reform)

Strengths vs weaknesses of models

• Coordinate authority model strengths include clear delineation of responsibilities and powers and promotion of local control and experimentation, but weaknesses involve lack of coordination and cooperation between levels of government and potential for gaps in service delivery and policy implementation
• Overlapping authority model strengths encourage collaboration and resource sharing and allow for flexibility and adaptability in addressing complex issues, but weaknesses include potential for duplication of efforts and inefficiencies and increased likelihood of intergovernmental conflicts
• Inclusive authority model strengths promote national uniformity and consistency in policy and ensure minimum standards and protections for citizens, but weaknesses reduce state and local autonomy and innovation and risk federal overreach and one-size-fits-all approaches

Factors shaping intergovernmental dynamics

• Political factors shaping intergovernmental relations include partisan alignment between federal, state, and local governments (divided vs unified government), electoral considerations and public opinion (mandates), and interest group influence and lobbying efforts (NRA)
• Economic factors impacting intergovernmental dynamics involve fiscal capacity and resources of each level of government (federal aid), economic downturns and budget constraints (Great Recession), and competition for economic development and investment (tax incentives)
• Social factors influencing intergovernmental relations include demographic shifts and population trends (urbanization), changing societal needs and demands (healthcare), and emergence of new social movements and advocacy groups (civil rights)