Which act extends to state and local government positions receiving federal funding and imposes obligations on merit principles?

The correct answer is the Intergovernmental Personnel Act (1970). This act was designed to improve the quality of public service in state and local governments, especially those that receive federal funding. It establishes guidelines for merit-based personnel systems, ensuring that public employees are recruited, selected, and promoted based on their ability and qualifications rather than political affiliations or other non-merit factors.

The Intergovernmental Personnel Act also encourages cooperation between federal, state, and local governments, allowing for the exchange of personnel and implementing programs aimed at enhancing the skills and effectiveness of government employees. This act plays a crucial role in promoting merit principles across various levels of government that receive federal assistance.

In contrast, while the other acts mentioned relate to specific aspects of public service or labor regulations, they do not specifically extend obligations on merit principles to state and local government positions receiving federal funding. For instance, the Political Activities Act primarily concerns the political activities of federal employees, the Civil Service Reform Act focuses on federal government reforms, and the Fair Labor Standards Act sets standards for wage and hour laws without directly addressing merit principles in government employment.