For more information, nonprofit organizations should get legal advice to make sure they are in compliance with the tax laws. More and more parent groups are deciding to work for change at the law-making level. In fact, the active involvement of such groups has had a distinctive impact on local, State and Federal legislation. There is a difference in the roles and jurisdiction of local, state and national elected officials. It is important to know which government official to approach, what the issue is, where that government official is located, when to make the approach and how the whole process works.
Government is divided into three basic areas, each area having a specific function and jurisdiction.
A local elected official has no legislative power on State matters and elected State officials have no legislative power at the Federal level. They deal with matters affecting cities and counties. They have influence at the State or Federal level but have no vote in such matters. Such legislation reflects community values and can be enforced through local law enforcement agencies. State Government - Most State legislatures are bicameral, meaning they have two legislative bodies known as the House of Representatives and the Senate.