Devolution describes a process through which

A) Congress gives up some of its power to the executive branch.
B) the federal government is downsized by delegating the implementation of programs to state and local governments.
C) state and local governments are downsized by delegating the implementation of programs to the federal government.
D) the federal government is downsized by completely cutting wasteful programs.

Devolution

The transfer or delegation of power to a lower level, especially by central government to local or regional administration.

Federal Government

The national government of a federated state, which shares power with sub-national entities.

State and Local Governments

The subdivisions of government within specific geographic areas that are smaller than the national level, responsible for local administration and governance.