Interlocking (cooperative) federalism
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Interlocking (cooperative) federalism (also known as marble-cake federalism) refers to a system of governance where federal and state governments share power and collaborate on certain issues. Under an interlocking federal system, the national government might work with state government programs to fund colleges, pay veterans, or build transportation infrastructure.[1]
Cooperative federalism contrasts with dual federalism, which is also known as layer-cake federalism. Under dual federalism, the federal and state governments each have clearly defined spheres of power.[2]
Background
Political scientist John Kincaid argued that the United States operated under a system of interlocking federalism from 1954 to 1978 and that dual federalism replaced that system in the late 1970s.[3]
An earlier example of interlocking federalism from United States history comes from the 19th century Swamp Lands Acts. Under those statutes, Congress gave millions of acres of wetlands to the states. Once they had the land, the states drained the swamps and sold the acreage to fund flood control programs. Through the 20th century, the federal government extended the idea of interlocking federalism and made policies related to education, disabilities, workplace safety, and the environment.[1]
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