There are regulations to cover the quality and safety of such things as home construction, cars, and electrical appliances. There are also regulations for financial services provided by banks, insurance companies, and stock brokers. Another important form of consumer protection is the use of licenses to prevent unqualified people from working in certain fields, such as medicine or the building trades. Our children receive their education mainly at public expense. City and county governments have the primary responsibility for elementary and secondary education.
Most states support colleges and universities.
The Federal Government supports education through grants to states for elementary, secondary, and vocational education. Federal grants used for conducting research are an important source of money for colleges and universities. Major programs include health services for the elderly and financial aid for the disabled and unemployed. Other major programs include financial aid to families with dependent children, and social services for low income individuals and families. The Federal Government taxes income as its main source of revenue.