The Branches of Government; The Budget

What are budget decisions based on?

A greater ability to make continuous improvements and anticipate problems; sound financial information on which to base decisions; improved clarity and focus; a greater confidence in your decision-making

Who makes decisions regarding the federal budget, how does this reflect our system of checks and balances?

Congress. Congress exists to prevent the executive branch in Washington, D.C., from exercising total control over U.S. legislation.

How long does a supreme court appointment last?

From two to three months.

Judicial Review

Judicial review is the power of a court to decide whether a law or decision by the government is constitutional.

Madison v Marbury

Marbury v. Madison, legal case in which, the U.S. Supreme Court first declared an act of Congress unconstitutional, thus establishing the doctrine of judicial review.

Surplus

More than what is needed or used

What does the government spend money on?

Reduce inequality; Provide public goods; Provide important public services like education and health; Debt interest payments; Transport; Military spending

Where does local money come from?

Taxes

Sustainability

The ability to be maintained at a certain rate or level.

Deficit

The amount by which something, especially a sum of money, is too small.

Executive branch

The branch of Government that is in charge of making sure that the laws of the United States are obeyed. It includes the president, vice president, the Cabinet, executive departments, independent agencies, and other boards, commissions, and committees. Purpose: enforcing laws Functions: to execute and enforce law.

Judicial Branch

The judicial branch of the U.S. government is the system of federal courts and judges that interprets laws made by the legislative branch and enforced by the executive branch. It's consist of the Supreme Court and other federal courts. Purpose: to protect and serve justice. Functions: The function of the judicial branch of government is to maintain justice and ensure that no laws go against the Constitution of the United States in any manner.

Legislative Branch

The legislative branch is in charge of making laws. The Legislative Branch consists of the House of Representatives and the Senate. Purpose: make new laws or change existing laws. Functions: The legislative branch drafts proposed laws, confirms or rejects presidential nominations for heads of federal agencies, federal judges, and the Supreme Court, and has the authority to declare war.

Outcomes

The net profit or loss of any transaction or undertaking, financial or otherwise.

Where does money come from for the government to spend?

Through taxation

How does the Judicial Branch shape public ideals?

When federal judges rule that laws or government actions violate the spirit of the Constitution, they profoundly shape public policy.

Does the public have a say in the budget?

Yes