State and Local Government SS.4.C.3.2 Distinguish between state (governor, state representative, or senator) and local government (mayor, city commissioner)

Each state has its own constitution. Florida has its own constitution unique to the state’s history and geographical location. Florida separates power between three branches. They are the legislative, judicial, and executive. State Government

State Government The Executive Branch The leader of the state executive branch is the Governor. In Florida the governor makes sure that all laws are enforced. The governor’s office is located in the Capitol building in the capital of Florida in Tallahassee.

State Government: The Legislative Branch The Legislative branch writes and passes laws that are just for the state of Florida. In the state of Florida, legislative branch is made up of two parts. Two parts that make up the Legislative branch in the state of Florida Members are called state representatives Members are called senators

State Government: The Judicial Branch The state of Florida has many courts that make decisions about state laws. The highest court in the state of Florida is the Florida Supreme Court located in the state’s capital of Tallahassee. The Seven Justices of the Florida Supreme Court

Local Government Refers to county and city government

Local Government LEVELS and responsibilities Image From: stateimpact.npr.org  There are two different levels of local government. At the first level is the county government. The next level is the city or town government. The powers and responsibilities of county and city governments are different from state to state.  Local governments are responsible for local public agencies. For example, funding schools, police and fire departments, county and city courts, city parks, and keeping streets and local areas safe.  Local governments also have their own type of executive, legislative and judicial branch.

City Government Executive Branch: The city government’s leader is called a mayor

City Government: Legislative Branch The Legislative branch at the city government level consists of the city council or city commission. Councils and commissions are groups of people elected to work with the mayor to make good decisions that will make life better for all the people living in the city. Sometimes they make laws called ordinances to keep things peaceful and safe in the city. Every city is unique so laws and decisions are different.

City Government: Judicial Branch Municipal courts make up the local judicial branch. People go to these courts for many reasons such as tickets, fines, breaking the law or problems that require a local judge to decide the outcome.