What role do states play in the federal system?

The selected answer highlights the significant role that states play within the federal system of the United States, where they possess the authority to enact and enforce their own laws autonomously from the federal government. This independence allows states to tailor their laws and policies to meet the specific needs and preferences of their residents, reflecting local values and conditions.

Each state has its own constitution, legislative authority, and judicial system, which means they can legislate on a range of issues not expressly governed by federal law, such as education, transportation, and public health. This capacity for independent law-making is crucial to the concept of federalism, which balances power between national and state governments.

In contrast, other options present inaccuracies about state roles. States do retain legislative powers; they are not limited to imitation or following federal laws. They are not solely responsible for international relations; this responsibility rests primarily with the federal government, especially under the Constitution. While states must adhere to federal law in areas where the federal government has jurisdiction, they do have room to operate independently in most matters not specified by federal legislation.