Heimlich's History: The Federal Bureaucracy

Introduction

• Focus: Understanding how the bureaucracy carries out federal responsibilities.
• Bureaucracy: Millions employed to carry out federal responsibilities under the executive branch.
• Role of Executive Branch: Enforce laws passed by Congress.

Structure of the Bureaucracy

• Cabinet Departments:

  • 15 cabinet departments (e.g., Department of Defense, Department of Education).
  • Heads are part of the President's cabinet.
  • Subdivided into agencies (e.g., Department of the Treasury has the IRS, U.S. Mint).

• Independent Regulatory Commissions:

  • Operate somewhat independently from the President.
  • Purpose: Regulate specific societal aspects (e.g., FCC regulates broadcast content).

• Government Corporations:

  • Hybrid between government agency and private business.
  • Example: U.S. Postal Service provides services best delivered through the market.

Functions of Bureaucracy

• Writing and Enforcing Regulations:

  • Example: FCC mandates closed captions for accessibility.

• Issuing Fines for Non-Compliance:

  • IRS fines for tax filing non-compliance.
  • EPA fines for environmental regulation breaches.

• Interacting with Congress:

  • Department heads testify before Congress.
  • Bureaucracy, congressional committees, and interest groups form "Iron Triangles."
  • Iron Triangles: Collaboration for policy-making.

Changes in Bureaucratic Efficiency

• Spoils System (Andrew Jackson Era):

  • Jobs given for political support, leading to inefficiencies.

• Civil Service Reform (Post-President Garfield):

  • Pendleton Civil Service Act (1883): Merit-based hiring.
  • Avoided patronage, ensuring qualified personnel.

• 20th Century Reforms:

  • Civil Service Reform Act (1978) under Jimmy Carter:
    • Expanded merit-based system.
    • Increased opportunities for women.
    • Improved department efficiency.

Conclusion

• Summary of Unit 2, Topic 12 of AP Government Curriculum.
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