State-Local Relations

There is tension between state and local government because local government wants to control the laws that directly impact their residents especially when it comes to police department, school, libraries, fire departments, parks and other things that are part of everyday life. On the other hand state government want laws all over to be the same so that we not only stand as a united state but it is also easier to manage. 

The tension between these two governments can be positive because the state government gives a base line and the local government helps balance the law so that it most benefits their residents. Without the state government each city or town would have completely different laws and it would be hard to manage, especially in states like California where cities are so close to one another. On the other hand without local government a lot of specific needs that cities have would be neglected. Having both of these governments helps balance the daily life and meet the specific needs of the residents.