Executive branch agencies often possess the power to interpret and implement laws passed by Congress. This authority, granted by legislative action, allows agencies to make policy decisions and take actions not explicitly detailed in the original statute. For example, Congress might pass a law directing the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to regulate air pollution. The specifics of how to measure pollution levels, which industries to regulate, and what penalties to impose are typically left to the EPA’s judgment, within the broad framework established by the law.
This power is vital for effective governance. It enables agencies to adapt to changing circumstances, address unforeseen issues, and leverage specialized expertise in ways that Congress, with its broader focus, cannot. Historically, this transfer of power has increased as the complexity of policy issues has grown, requiring specialized knowledge and flexible responses. It allows for efficient implementation of legislation and allows Congress to focus on writing laws instead of being caught up in the bureaucratic work. Without such flexibility, government would struggle to address evolving challenges effectively.
