Describe the federal system in the United States Why is it i

Describe the federal system in the United States. Why is it important for states to retain certain powers while others are limited to the federal government only? Give specific examples of authority that each possesses.

Solution

The United States constitution divides governance between states and the national government. This is the mainstay of a federal system where areas of authority is shared between the two constitutional entities.

The state governments typically handle local governance related to police, municipal and sanitation workers, health and educational institutions and public welfare. The federal government on the other hand is responsible for foreign affairs, trade policies, armed forces, immigration policies and federal budget.

It is important for states to retain certain powers as it is better equipped to handle local issues such as policing, education and public welfare for which a federal government may not be able to devote necessary attention and time. The representatives of state administration are also more accessible and known to local populace for redressal of any issues as compared to federal authorities who could be from other states.