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Exploring the Kasson Act: Legal Definition and Historical Context
Definition & meaning
The Kasson Act, formally known as the Metric Act of 1866, is a significant piece of legislation in the United States that established the metric system as a legal system of measurement. Named after Congressman John A. Kasson of Iowa, who chaired the House Committee on Coinage, Weights, and Measures, this act was enacted on July 28, 1866. It provided an official definition of the metric system and included tables of metric units, although these definitions have since become outdated. The act has been amended by the America COMPETES Act, which updated the metric system to align with modern definitions of the International System of Units (SI). The Kasson Act is codified at 15 USC Section 204.
Table of content
Legal use & context
The Kasson Act is primarily relevant in legal contexts involving measurements, particularly in scientific, engineering, and commercial applications. Its recognition of the metric system supports various legal practices, including regulations in trade, manufacturing, and education. Users may encounter this act when dealing with forms related to measurements, such as those for product specifications or safety standards. Legal templates available through US Legal Forms can assist users in navigating these requirements effectively.
Key legal elements
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A manufacturer of consumer products must ensure that the specifications of their products, such as dimensions and weight, conform to the metric system as mandated by the Kasson Act for compliance with federal regulations.
Example 2: A university's engineering department incorporates metric measurements in its curriculum, aligning with the standards set forth by the Kasson Act to prepare students for global engineering practices. (hypothetical example)
Relevant laws & statutes
The primary statute related to the Kasson Act is the Metric Act of 1866 itself, codified at 15 USC Section 204. Additionally, the America COMPETES Act (Pub. L. 110"69) amended the original act to update the definitions of the metric system to reflect current standards.
Comparison with related terms
Term
Definition
Difference
Kasson Act
Establishes the metric system as a legal standard in the U.S.
Specifically pertains to the metric system and its legal recognition.
Metric System
A system of measurement based on meters, liters, and grams.
The metric system is the broader measurement system, while the Kasson Act is the legislation that recognizes it legally.
America COMPETES Act
Legislation aimed at enhancing U.S. competitiveness in science and technology.
Amends the Kasson Act to update the metric definitions but serves a broader purpose beyond measurement.
Common misunderstandings
What to do if this term applies to you
If you need to comply with measurement standards under the Kasson Act, consider the following steps:
Review your product specifications to ensure they meet metric standards.
Utilize legal templates from US Legal Forms to create compliant documents.
If you face complex issues regarding compliance, consult a legal professional for tailored advice.
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