WEST-E Social Studies Practice Test

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What is one major effect of Federalism on public policy in the US?

Encouraging total federal control of all policy
Determining the origin of policy at local, state, or national level
Affecting public opinion towards policy-making
Centralizing policy decisions in one government branch

The correct answer is: Determining the origin of policy at local, state, or national level

One major effect of Federalism on public policy in the United States is determining the origin of policy at local, state, or national levels. Federalism, a system of government where power is divided between a central authority and smaller political units, allows for multiple layers of government to operate simultaneously. As a result, policies can originate from various levels depending on the issue at hand. Local governments often address community-specific needs, states develop policies that account for regional differences, and the federal government enacts laws that apply nationwide. This structure promotes diversity in policy-making, allowing for tailored solutions that reflect the unique demographics, economies, and cultures of different areas. It also facilitates experimentation with policies, as states and localities can act as laboratories for new ideas before they might be adopted at a national level. This dynamic interplay between different levels of government ensures that the public's needs can be met more effectively across a wide array of issues.