Heimlich's History: Federal Bureaucracy

Overview

• Focus on how the federal bureaucracy implements the executive branch's will.
• Aim: Understand the use of delegated discretionary authority for rulemaking and implementation.

Key Concepts

• Federal Bureaucracy: Consists of millions working in agencies and departments under the executive branch.

  • Executes laws passed by Congress (laws are passed by Congress, interpreted by the Supreme Court, and executed by the executive branch).
  • President: Figurehead of the executive branch, responsible for law execution.
  • Bureaucracy: Helps execute laws as the President alone can't manage everything.

• Delegated Discretionary Authority:

  • Bureaucratic agencies have no constitutional authority of their own.
  • Power is delegated to them to enforce laws.
  • Agencies are filled with experts who use discretion to implement laws.
  • Rule-making Authority: Bureaucracy makes specific rules for law implementation.

Example of Bureaucratic Function

• 16th Amendment: Establishes income tax.
  • IRS (Internal Revenue Service):
    • Makes rules for tax collection, such as due dates and payment methods.
    • Example: Taxes are due April 15th (rule by IRS).

Important Bureaucratic Agencies & Their Roles

1. Department of Homeland Security:

   • Protects against terrorism, controls borders.
   • Rules for immigration and asylum.

2. Department of Transportation:

   • Manages transportation (e.g., highway, air travel).
   • Rules for work hours and rest for flight attendants.

3. Department of Veteran Affairs:

   • Manages welfare of veterans.
   • Rules for veterans hospitals, education, and home loans.

4. Department of Education:

   • Manages federal educational standards.
   • Rules for federal grants and school qualifications.

5. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA):

   • Protects environment and health through regulations.
   • Rules against environmental pollution (e.g., nuclear waste disposal).

6. Federal Elections Commission:

   • Enforces campaign finance laws.
   • Rules for political candidates, fundraising, and spending.

7. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC):

   • Regulates the stock market, prevents fraud.
   • Rules against insider trading.

Conclusion

• Understanding these agencies and their authority is key for AP Government curriculum.
• Further resources available for deepening knowledge and exam preparation.