📚 Topic Summary
Concurrent powers are powers that are shared by both the federal and state governments. These powers allow both levels of government to function effectively and address issues within their respective jurisdictions. Examples include the power to tax, build roads, and establish courts. Understanding concurrent powers is crucial for comprehending the balance of power in the U.S. federal system.
These shared powers are essential for maintaining a functional balance in the federal system. Both the federal and state governments can exercise these powers independently, but their actions must not conflict with the Constitution or federal laws. Recognizing the scope and limits of concurrent powers is key to understanding federalism in the United States.
🧠 Part A: Vocabulary
Match the terms with their definitions:
- Terms:
- ⚖️ Concurrent Powers
- налоговая Taxing Power
- 🛣️ Infrastructure
- 🏛️ Federalism
- 📜 Constitution
- Definitions:
- A. The division of power between a central government and regional governments.
- B. The power of government to collect taxes.
- C. The system of fundamental laws and principles that prescribes the nature, functions, and limits of a government or another institution.
- D. Basic physical and organizational structures needed for the operation of a society or enterprise.
- E. Powers that are shared by both the federal and state governments.
Match the term to the correct definition. (Answers below)
✍️ Part B: Fill in the Blanks
Fill in the missing words in the paragraph below:
Both the federal and state governments have the power to ____, which is an example of a _____ power. They also both can establish ____ and enforce ____. These shared responsibilities demonstrate the principles of _______.
(Answers: tax, concurrent, courts, laws, federalism)
🤔 Part C: Critical Thinking
Explain why concurrent powers are essential for the balance of power in the U.S. federal system. Provide specific examples to support your answer.