According to the Cooley Doctrine, what is the status of local government?

The Cooley Doctrine establishes that local governments possess the authority to govern themselves in matters of local concern, reflecting the principle of home rule. Under this doctrine, local governments hold a certain degree of autonomy, which implies that they have rights that cannot be completely abrogated or taken away by the state. This means that local entities are considered to have inherent rights to self-governance, as long as they operate within the framework of the state's laws.

This principle acknowledges that local governments are closer to their constituents and better suited to make decisions on issues that directly affect their communities. Hence, the doctrine supports the idea that local governance is not just a privilege granted by the state, but a fundamental right that should be respected and upheld. Understanding this concept is vital for individuals working in public administration and governance, as it emphasizes the importance of local autonomy within the larger context of state authority.