Features of federalism in the USA
Federalism is a compound mode of two governments. That is, in one According to the USA constitution, federalism is a system including a mixture of two governments. Generally, under federalism, there are two levels of governance One is a central government that looks after the major matters of the nation. The other is more exceeding of a local government that watches after the day to day functioning and ventures of their particular area within the nation. The best way to comprehensively explain the federal system in the USA is to learn about its characteristics which reflect the true essence of federalism. The features are as follows.
- The essential feature, which is the definition of federalism is that there are two levels of governance in the USA but there can even be more. the entire power is not concentrated with one government.
- All levels of governance will govern the same citizens, but their jurisdiction will be different. This means that each level of government will have a specific power to form laws, legislate, and execute these laws. Both of the governments will have marked jurisdiction. It will not be that one of the government is just a figurehead government.
- Another important feature is that the constitution must guarantee this federal system of government. This means the powers and duties of both or all governments must be listed down in the constitution of that country hence guaranteeing a federal system of governance.
- As stated above the federalism of the USA is prescribed by the constitution. But it is also important to note that just one level of government cannot make unilateral changes or amendments to the important and essential provisions of the lands constitution. Such changes must be approved by all the levels of the government to be carried through.
- Now there are two levels of control with separate authorities and separate responsibilities. Yet there is still a likelihood that a dispute may mount between the two. Well in a federal state like the USA, it will fall upon the courts or preferably the judiciary to settle this conflict. The courts must have the ability to impede in such a position and reach a verdict.
While there is power-sharing within the two levels of government, there should also be a method in place for revenue splitting. Both levels of state should have their autonomous revenue brooks. Because if one such government depends on the other for funds to carry out its functions, it is not self-ruling in its true essence