Public Policy

How are the powers of Ohio’s state government consistent with the powers of the U.S. federal government?

• Ohio’s legislative branch has the power to pass laws.

• Ohio’s legislative branch has the power to appoint all executive officials.

• Ohio’s executive branch has the power to negotiate with foreign nations.

• Ohio’s executive branch has the power to appoint Supreme Court justices.

The Ohio Constitution of 1851 established district courts. How did this solve an existing problem in the state?

• It reduced the burden on the Ohio Supreme Court.

• It brought civic order during a time of social disorder and chaos.

• It curbed the federal government’s infringement on Ohio’s state rights.

• It provided additional checks and balances against the executive branch.

What was one change made by the 1851 Ohio Constitution that affected how the state was governed?

• The 1851 Ohio Constitution increased the power of the General Assembly.

• The 1851 Ohio Constitution limited the amount of debt the state could accumulate.

• The 1851 Ohio Constitution permitted the General Assembly to enact retroactive laws.

• The 1851 Ohio Constitution lifted a restriction on how the state could spend its tax funds.

What happens when the laws of Ohio and the federal government contradict one another?

• The Ohio Supreme Court determines which law will be enforced in Ohio.

• State law is followed because both constitutions agree that state law takes precedence over federal law.

• The U.S. Congress holds hearings on the conflict and determines which law will govern the people of Ohio.

• The U.S. Constitution is followed because it states that the laws of the United States take precedence over state law.

According to the Ohio and U.S. constitutions, which responsibility is held by both the state of Ohio and the federal government?

• raising taxes

• declaring war

• printing money

• forming international treaties

The Ohio General Assembly is considering a bill that would reduce the amount of tax revenue allocated to local school systems. A group of teachers is opposed to the passage of this bill. What would be the most effective action that the teachers’ group could take to influence the General Assembly’s vote on this bill?

• filing an appeal with the state Supreme Court

• starting a letter-writing campaign to state legislators

• offering comments during local city council meetings

• holding public demonstrations in front of the White House.

When the U.S. economy performs poorly, many people look to the government to take action. If the government cuts taxes, which would probably occur?

• Bank failures would increase.

• The stock market would collapse.

• People would have more money to spend.

• The government would balance the budget.

The government has enacted a law requiring the installation of seat belts in new cars. What is the intended benefit of this type of increased government regulation?

• to increase tax revenue

• to promote economic growth

• to reduce private-sector profits

• to enhance consumer protections

Why might lawmakers increase taxes and decrease government spending?

• to reduce unemployment

• to increase consumer spending

• to decrease the level of demand

• to encourage corporate spending