This article examines the relationship between the state and municipalities from the perspective of the principle of responsibility. This principle presupposes state responsibility for the organization and implementation of local self-government. The state must provide guarantees to protect municipalities from unjustified political influence by government bodies and officials. It is noted that the state's responsible attitude toward municipalities is predetermined by solidarity — the separation of functions in accordance with the Constitution of the Russian Federation. The state and municipalities must not infringe on each other's functional independence. Moreover, the principle of state responsibility is ensured by the right of municipalities to judicial protection. Furthermore, responsibility may influence the rules for the delimitation of powers between state authorities and local governments. It is necessary to establish a legislative prohibition on the abuse of the right to delegate powers to local governments by state authorities.