The concept describes a political philosophy of devolution, transferring certain powers from the United States federal government back to the individual state governments. This involves a shift in the balance of authority and responsibility, aiming to grant states more autonomy in managing their affairs. For example, block grants, where the federal government provides funding to states with broad guidelines but allows them flexibility in implementation, are a key mechanism associated with this approach.
The importance of such a restructuring lies in the potential for increased responsiveness to local needs and preferences. Proponents argue that states, being closer to their constituents, are better equipped to understand and address specific issues within their jurisdictions. Historically, this approach has been advocated as a means of curbing the size and influence of the federal government, promoting efficiency and innovation at the state level, and fostering greater citizen engagement in governance.