block grants

Grants of money from the national government that states can spend within broad guidelines determined by Washington

Conditions of Aid

Terms set by the national government that states must meet if they are to receive certain federal funds

Devolution

The effort to transfer responsibility for many public programs and services from the federal government to the states

Dual federalism

A constitutional theory that the national government and the state government each have defined areas of authority

Grants-in-aid

Money given by the national government to the states

Initiative

Process that permits voters to put legislative measures directly on the ballot

Mandates

Terms set by the national government that states must meet whether or not they accept federal grants

Necessary and Proper Clause

Section of the Constitution allowing Congress to pass all laws "necessary and proper" to its duties

Nullification

The doctrine that a state can declare null and void a federal law that, in the state's opinion, violates the Constitution

Police Power

The power of a government to effect laws that promote citizens' health, safety, and morals

Recall

Procedure whereby voters can remove an elected official from office

Referendum

Procedure enabling voters to reject a measure passed by the legislature