Introduction
Unitary, confederal, and federal systems are different power-sharing systems. In the unitary system, control is centralized, with the national government holding most of it (Longley). Countries that practice the unitary system include France, Japan, and the United Kingdom. In the confederal system, power is decentralized, with the individual states or regions holding most of the administration. Countries that practice the confederal system include Switzerland, the European Union, and the United States under the Articles of Confederation. The federal system divides power between the national government and the states or regions (Longley). Countries that practice the federal system include the United States, Australia, and Canada. According to Longley, the United States currently uses the federal system way.
Discussion
Categorical grants and block grants are two types of grants-in-aid. Categorical grants are grants given to states or local governments for specific purposes. These grants come with specific requirements and guidelines, and the recipient must use the funds for the designated purpose (Intergovernmental relationships). Examples include Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. The problem with categorical grants is that they limit the recipient’s flexibility and discretion in using them.
On the other hand, block grants are grants given to states or local governments for general purposes. The recipient has more discretion in using the funds, and there are fewer restrictions and guidelines (Intergovernmental relationships). Examples include the Community Development Block Grant and the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program. The problem with block grants is that they can lead to unequal distribution of funds among the states or regions.
Under the U.S. system of federalism, the federal government and state governments shared the command and responsibility to handle the coronavirus pandemic. The federal government used its expressed control to regulate interstate commerce and public health to take actions such as banning travel from certain countries and funding vaccine research. The states used their reserved powers to establish policies on such topics as mask mandates and business closures.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the system of federalism in the United States allows for a sharing of power between the federal government and state governments. This division of power allows for a more flexible and adaptable system, especially in times of crisis, such as the coronavirus pandemic. The use of grants-in-aid provides a way for the federal government to support the states in addressing specific needs while also allowing for some level of discretion at the state level.
Works Cited
“Intergovernmental Relationships.” Open Educational Resources, Web.
Longley, Robert. “What is Federalism? Definition and How It Works in the U.S.” ThoughtCo, Web.