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Intelligible Principle: A Key Concept in Legislative Delegation
Definition & Meaning
The intelligible principle is a legal standard established by the Supreme Court that guides Congress in delegating its legislative powers to other entities, such as government agencies. This principle requires that when Congress delegates authority, it must provide a clear and general guideline that the receiving agency can follow to implement the law. The guidelines should be broad enough to allow agencies to fill in the details while ensuring that they remain within the scope of the law established by Congress. This principle helps maintain a balance between legislative authority and administrative discretion.
Table of content
Legal Use & context
The intelligible principle is primarily used in administrative law, particularly in cases involving the delegation of legislative power to agencies. It plays a crucial role in determining whether Congress has provided sufficient guidance for agencies to create regulations. This principle is relevant in various legal contexts, including environmental law, health regulations, and economic policies. Users may encounter forms and procedures related to agency regulations, which can often be managed using templates available through US Legal Forms.
Key legal elements
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A federal environmental agency is authorized by Congress to set regulations for air quality standards. Congress provides a broad guideline stating that the agency must consider public health and welfare when establishing these standards. This allows the agency to create specific rules based on current scientific research.
Example 2: (hypothetical example) A state agency is given the authority to regulate the use of pesticides. Congress specifies that the agency must ensure that these regulations protect public health and the environment, allowing the agency to develop detailed rules on pesticide application and safety.
State-by-state differences
Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):
State
Delegation Guidelines
California
Has specific environmental standards that agencies must follow.
Texas
Allows broader discretion for agencies in economic regulations.
New York
Requires detailed public hearings for significant agency rule-making.
This is not a complete list. State laws vary and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
Comparison with related terms
Term
Definition
Difference
Non-delegation doctrine
The principle that Congress cannot delegate its legislative powers.
The intelligible principle allows for some delegation under specific guidelines.
Administrative discretion
The authority given to agencies to make decisions within the framework of the law.
Intelligible principle limits discretion by requiring clear guidelines from Congress.
Common misunderstandings
What to do if this term applies to you
If you are affected by regulations created under the intelligible principle, consider the following steps:
Review the specific guidelines issued by the relevant agency to understand your rights and obligations.
Consult with a legal professional if you have questions about compliance or the legality of the regulations.
Explore US Legal Forms for templates that may assist you in navigating agency requirements or filing necessary documents.
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