Statute

Definition§

A statute is a formal written law enacted by a legislative body at the federal, state, or local level. These laws are passed under constitutional authority and become part of the codified law that governs behavior within the jurisdiction. Statutes are created to regulate individual and group behavior, define criminal acts, establish government agencies, allocate public funding, and promote the general welfare.

Examples§

1. The Civil Rights Act of 1964: This federal statute outlawed discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin and aimed to end segregation in public places and ban employment discrimination.
2. The Clean Air Act: A federal law designed to control air pollution on a national level, it mandates the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to set limits on certain air pollutants and enforce these standards.
3. State Traffic Codes: These statutes govern the operation of motor vehicles on state roadways, covering speed limits, driving under the influence, and seat belt requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions§

What is the difference between a statute and a regulation?§

A statute is a law passed by a legislative body, while a regulation is a rule made by an executive agency based on authority given by the statute. Regulations provide details on how the law will be enforced.

How does a statute become law?§

A statute becomes law through a legislative process that typically includes introduction, committee review, debate, voting by both legislative houses, and signing by the executive (e.g., the President or Governor).

Can statutes be challenged in court?§

Yes, statutes can be challenged in court for their constitutionality or for conflicts with other laws. Courts have the authority to interpret statutes and can invalidate them if found unconstitutional.

What is statutory interpretation?§

Statutory interpretation is the process by which courts determine the meaning and application of statutes. Judges look at the language of the statute, legislative intent, and other relevant factors to make decisions.

Related Terms§

• Ordinance: A law enacted by a municipal authority, such as a city or county. It has the force of law within the local jurisdiction.
• Regulation: Rules created by executive agencies based on statutory authority, providing details on how the statutes will be implemented and enforced.
• Common Law: A system of law based on judicial precedents rather than statutes. It is the body of law developed through court decisions over time.

Online References§

1. Cornell Law School Legal Information Institute (LII)
2. FindLaw - Statute and Legislation Definitions
3. GovTrack.us - Tracking U.S. Congress Legislation

Suggested Books for Further Studies§

1. “Statutory Interpretation: General Principles and Recent Trends” by Congressional Research Service
2. “American Constitutional Law” by Laurence H. Tribe
3. “Understanding Legislation: A Practical Guide to Statutory Interpretation” by Farrar John H, Duggan Anthony

Fundamentals of Statutes: Business Law Basics Quiz§

Thank you for exploring the intricate world of statutes with our detailed article and challenging quiz questions. Keep enhancing your knowledge of business law!