States are the Solution

Why Federalism?

... act like it.

NFIB v. Sebelius, 2012

Federalism protects the liberty of the individual from arbitrary power. (NFIB v. Sebelius, 2012)

At its heart, federalism means [t]he independent power of the States also serves as a check on the power of the Federal Government.

Fundamentals to Act Like It

Jurisdiction
The general power of governing. Last year, the U.S. Supreme Court also reiterated this general power of governing [is] possessed by the States but not by the Federal Government.

Sovereignty

Supreme in power. In admonishing us last year to act like it, the Supreme Court reminded us, States are separate and independent sovereigns.

Supremacy Having more power, authority or status than anyone else. In recent years, the U.S. Supreme
Court quoted Federalist No. 39 to clarify that States form distinct and independent portions of the supremacy (Prinz v. US, 1997).

Federalism is a Team Sport

The governing partnership between the states and the federal government is seriously out of balance. One state cannot roll back Washingtons overreach on its own; it is going to take a concerted effort by state legislators nationwide to unite their common forces for the protection of their common liberty. Federalist No. 28

When Do We Start?
We start immediately! In the coming days I will email you a short survey to find out from you: 1. The critical issues of federal overreach you face where we need to play Team Ball. 2. Areas where current Team Ball State efforts need some championship support. Your answers to these important questions will help guide and direct our federalism policy agenda in the coming year. As the new ALEC Chair, I see an opportunity like never before to restore the principles of federalism and check the power of Washington. Senator Johnson and others reminded us this week that Washington is not going to solve the Washington problem. We are the leaders we have been waiting for! A renewed understanding of and commitment to federalism as a team sport is the only solution big enough. Thank you for your willingness to serve and determination to leave a legacy of liberty! Representative Linda Upmeyer