Subsidiarity

Lean into Federalism: Keep it real, keep it local

Subsidiarity holds that social and political issues should be dealt with at the most immediate jurisdictional level. Effectuating this concept requires significant, dependable funding at the sub-Federal level. It also requires that states and sub-state governmental units lean into federalism / local autonomy to the extent legally permissible and politically achievable. Naturally, requisite oversight, accountability, communication and engagement for locally focused tax and spend programs is presumed. Residents and businesses require results; the proximity of subsidiarity creates intrinsic accountability.

A few examples:

One year after implementation, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority's Congestion Relief Zone (CRZ) tolling program has been a resounding success. 21 million fewer vehicles entered Midtown Manhattan between January and October 2025, with a 7.1% reduction in vehicle miles traveled (VMT). Commute speeds into the zone rose sharply, and traffic speeds within and around the CRZ also improved. Bus performance rebounded, with higher speeds and an 8% ridership increase. The program exceeded its $500 million revenue target, funding significant MTA infrastructure upgrades.

Oklahoma City has been administering Metropolitan Area Projects Plan (MAPS) for years, a citizen-approved public works funding initiative financed by a temporary sales tax - and has raised billions - to support a portfolio of local projects including parks, convention centers, transit enhancements, and cultural facilities.

Hawaii’s Governor Josh Green, M.D., has signed Senate Bill 1396 into law as Act 96, establishing the nation’s first climate impact fee. The bill addresses the critical need to build resiliency against the impacts of climate change by providing a stable source of funding for environmental stewardship, hazard mitigation and sustainable tourism. It's projected to generate $100M annually and took effect at the beginning of 2026.