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Big Government terms
Programs, bureaucracy and overreach.
Administrative state A term for the federal agencies that make and enforce rules with binding effect, often seen as a fourth branch of government. Congressional Review Act A 1996 law letting Congress overturn federal agency rules by a simple-majority resolution that is immune to Senate filibuster. Cost-benefit analysis A method that weighs the estimated costs and benefits of a policy or regulation, usually in dollar terms, to judge whether it is worthwhile. Deregulation The reduction or removal of government rules governing business and economic activity. Enumerated powers The specific powers the Constitution grants to Congress and the federal government, chiefly the list in Article I, Section 8. Federalism A system dividing governing power between a national government and state governments, each with its own sphere of authority. Limited government The principle that government power should be restricted by a constitution or law to defined purposes, leaving most matters to individuals and society. Means testing Limiting government benefits to people whose income or assets fall below a certain level. Nanny state A pejorative for government that is seen as overprotective, regulating personal choices for people's own good. Nondelegation doctrine The principle that Congress may not hand its lawmaking power to agencies or others without clear limits on how it is used. Occupational licensing State laws requiring workers in certain jobs to obtain a government license, often involving training, exams and fees, before practicing. Public choice theory The application of economic analysis to political behavior, treating voters, politicians and bureaucrats as self-interested actors. Regulatory capture The tendency of a regulatory agency to come under the influence of the industry it is supposed to oversee, serving it more than the public. Welfare state A system in which government provides or guarantees programs, such as pensions, health care and income support, to protect citizens' basic welfare.