Politips... for A-Level Politics and Beyond Federalism vs Devolution: what is the difference? Politips Explains
Jun 2, 2024
Explore the intriguing differences between federalism and devolution, focusing on the U.S. and the UK. Power allocation between central and regional authorities reveals evolving political tensions. The podcast delves into historical shifts and highlights pivotal legislative events shaping these systems. With insightful case studies, it uncovers the complexities of governance and how regional nuances impact policy. Tune in for a captivating comparative analysis!
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Federalism vs. Devolution
- The USA has a constitutionally embedded federal system, dividing power between federal and state governments.
- The UK, traditionally unitary, is now considered quasi-federal due to devolution of power to regional bodies.
Examples of Regional Powers
- Scotland's free university tuition contrasts with England's £9,250 fees, demonstrating devolved education policy.
- Similarly, Ron DeSantis in Florida shaped education policy by signing HB1285, highlighting state-level power in the US.
Policy Divergence
- Scotland's 45% income tax rate for higher earners reflects policy divergence enabled by the Scotland Act 2012.
- In the US, varying marijuana laws and contrasting responses to Black Lives Matter in education demonstrate policy divergence across states.