This brief version of the top-selling State and Local Government retains the unique thematic and historical approach of the comprehensive text in 12 chapters compared to 16. The condensed format provides explanations of the structure of state and local government, as well as their functions in the current political scene. In addition, descriptions of public policy issues appear at relevant points throughout the text and are better integrated into discussed topics.

Revisions to the Second Edition include thoroughly updated material on Federalism and current coverage of terrorism, outlining state and local governments' roles in responding to the September 11 attacks and the subsequent war on terrorism.

• Coverage of e-government and the Internet explores how technology affects state and local government and citizen participation.
• Up-to-date policy focus addresses important issues facing government at this level and includes topics such as education, economic development, criminal justice, the environment, social welfare, and healthcare.