LAW 766: Local Government Law
The direct effect of government on our daily lives often varies inversely with its level in our federal hierarchy, but local government decisions are rarely considered in law school courses. To what extent can or should local governments act? This course explores the sources and potential limits of local government power as found in state and federal statutes and constitutions. The importance of centralization and diffusion of authority and the line between public and private provision of goods and services will also be considered. Topics will include issues related to the formation, alteration, organization, and operation of municipal and county government. Specific applications may include, but are not limited to, local government regulation of land; taxation, and revenue decisions; law enforcement and prison overcrowding; waste disposal and environmental regulations; antitrust limits on municipal activities; and citizen litigation against local governments. [3]
