What must local governments do if the state mandates a policy?

Local governments are required to comply with state-mandated policies to maintain eligibility for state funds and support. When the state government enacts a policy, local governments are expected to implement it as part of their responsibilities. This compliance ensures that they continue to receive financial assistance, which is often essential for local programs and services.

The option involving seeking approval from the federal government is not typically necessary because state mandates are issued at a different level of government, and local governments are primarily accountable to the state. Initiating a legal challenge may occur in some cases, but it is not a standard procedure and would depend on specific circumstances where a local government believes the state mandate is unconstitutional or unjust. Disregarding the policy could lead to penalties, loss of funding, and other repercussions, making compliance the most prudent and responsible action for local governments.