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Chapter 3: Federalism

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This activity contains 1 question.

Understanding Federalism

In a federal system some level of inequality is acceptable. For instance, in some states welfare payments are higher than in other states. Thus, your level of benefits depends upon the state in which you live. In addition, some states allow for the medical use of marijuana while other states consider any use of marijuana to be a crime. Let's look at medical marijuana laws across the U.S.

Search Tips

Go the web page of NARAL, the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws at http://www.norml.org/. Review the objectives of this organization. After doing so, scroll down the main page a few inches until you see a link titled "Medical Use" and click on it. Scroll down this page a few inches until you see a link titled "Summary of Active State Programs" and click on it. Review the programs of the states that have medical marijuana laws.

Questions to Ask

Of the nine states that have medical marijuana programs, how many of these programs were passed by the state's legislature and signed into law by the governor?
How many of these programs were passed by the voters?
Do you see the diversity in medical marijuana laws across the country as one of the advantages of federalism or do you think one national policy would be better?

Why it Matters

Differences in public policy, such as those related to the medical use of marijuana or the use of the death penalty, characterize American federalism. As the national government grows larger and stronger in relation to state governments, such diversity may come under pressure.

Get Involved

Send your state legislator or governor an e-mail outlining your views on the medical use of marijuana. Do you think it's a good idea? If so, say so. Do you think it's a bad idea? If so, let your elected officials know why.

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