PO 5330 - State and Local Government

The late Speaker of the House, Thomas P. ‘Tip’ O’Neil is often quoted as having said all politics is local. In this course, students examine the roles state and local governments play in the American system of federalism. The course examines the relationship between and among localities, states and the federal government. Students will have the opportunity to focus on the various roles of state and local government from the ability to make laws, regulate behavior, impose taxes and provide for the common good. The limitations of government is also examined. Particular attention is given to policy issues like voting and voter registration, education, school finance, health care, law enforcement and tax and debt limitations. (4 credits)