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Texas and Federalism. The Federal System What it is, How it works . Definition. Federalism a political system in which several states or regions defer some powers, (e.g. in foreign affairs), to a central government while retaining a limited measure of self-government. What it means….
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Texas and Federalism The Federal System What it is, How it works.
Definition Federalism • a political system in which several states or regions defer some powers, (e.g. in foreign affairs), to a central government while retaining a limited measure of self-government
What it means… • Texas is part of a federal system = Texas is part of the USA • It is no longer a separateentity (republic)
State Equality • Texas is legally equal to all other U.S. states • Each state can create state laws that affect everyone within that state.
What Each State CAN Do • Create laws regarding marriage and property • Create School districts and curriculum • Set minimum ages for: • Drivers licenses • Getting married
What Each State CANNOT Do • Coin or create their own money • Create state laws that violate constitutionally protectedcivil rights • Create internationalTrade agreements • Declare war – (only U.S. Congress can do that)
However, • the USA has final legal authority over allof the states. • Legal authority is established by the U.S. Constitution and Federal Laws • This includes supervisory • control over state/local law • enforcement.
National Guard • States have a national guard • It is illegal for the president to “call out the guard” • It may only be called out by the state governor • This protects citizens from standing federal armies being used as harassment
National Guard However- • The guard may be federalized - and temporarily absorbed into the U. S. Army during wartime (such as the current wars in Afghanistan and Iraq). • A state governor may refuse…. • But that is frowned upon during wartime.