Advocacy Glossary
Preemption
What does preemption mean?
Preemption is when a higher level of government overrides a lower one's laws, such as a federal law blocking state rules or a state law blocking city and county ordinances.
Why it matters for advocates
Preemption can create one clear national or statewide standard, or it can wipe out stronger local protections. Florida has passed many laws preempting local rules.
For advocates working locally, it is worth checking early whether the state or federal government has already claimed the issue. A local win can disappear if the legislature preempts it.
Related terms
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