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perform by a higher level of government. This distinction is crucial, as mandates <br />require units of government to perform specific activities, and authorizations entitle <br />units of govermnent to perform activities as a condition of operation. <br />Survey responses also indicated varying interpretations of mandate types. Thus., <br />the distinctions between direct orders, conditions of aid, and optional activities with <br />regulations are somewhat arbitrary. In addition, many programs may represent <br />combinations of mandate types which may further obscure these distinctions. <br />Fiscal impact. The dollar figures provided in the departmental responses are <br />estimates of the fiscal impact of mandates at the federal, state, and local levels. 'These <br />dollar figures are estimates primarily because administering entities often absorb <br />mandated costs into their operating budgets, making isolation of these costs difficult. <br />Local government input The absence of a local government survey limits the <br />usefulness of the information provided in this study. This limitation affects the analysis <br />of mandates since most of the administration and costs associated with mandates occur <br />at the local level. An extensive survey of mandates at the local level would provide <br />better knowledge of associated costs. <br />Response bias. This study faces the problem of response bias, which occurs <br />when survey respondents incorporate their personal support for a program or activity <br />into their survey responses. Staff attempted to account for such biases by verifying <br />departmental responses and cross - referencing them with applicable statutes. <br />For further information, call or write: <br />Office of Legislative Council <br />State Capitol Building, Rm 029 <br />Denver, CO 80203 -1784 <br />(303) 866 -3521 <br />iv <br />