What is an unfunded mandate?

An unfunded mandate refers to a policy or regulation imposed by the federal government on state governments that requires them to carry out certain actions without providing federal funds to cover the costs associated with those actions. This means that while the federal government may set requirements that states must follow, it does not allocate financial resources to assist states in meeting these requirements.

This often places a financial burden on states, as they must find their own funding sources to comply with federal mandates. For instance, the federal government might mandate certain environmental regulations or educational standards, but if it does not provide the necessary financial support, states must either reallocate their existing budgets or raise additional funds. Understanding unfunded mandates is crucial in discussions about the relationship between state and federal governments, particularly in the context of federalism, where responsibilities and financial obligations can be complex and contentious.