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Two government budget practices that can have significant implications for lower levels of government are block grants and unfunded mandates.

Federal and state governments have tried to change budget rules to control government spending. Budget rules have also been used to impose fiscal discipline.

At the federal level, there are two categories of budgetary expenditures: entitlement and discretionary spending.

One indicator of smart fiscal practices is maintaining balance between spending and revenues. Occasionally deficits may be necessary.

Under the U.S. Constitution, people are entitled to compensation when a government takes their property. This is known as a taking.

Policymakers can take action to stimulate the economy.

The right to vote is a fundamental human right. Free and fair elections are essential to democracy.

U.S. House members and state representatives are elected by district.

The landscape of campaign finance has changed dramatically in the past decade.

Democracies require openness and honesty in government. This means government policymaking and institutions function in public view.