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What executive agencies do
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Start with a question
Who writes the detailed rules after Congress passes a law?
In brief
Executive agencies translate laws into day-to-day rules, enforce them, and report back to Congress and the public.
Why this matters
Agencies like the EPA or FDA draft regulations, collect comments, and revise. They inspect, issue guidance, and can face court review if rules overreach. Oversight hearings and budgets keep agencies accountable.
A simple example
Congress funds school lunches; an agency sets nutrition standards and inspects cafeterias.
Questions to think about
- Why does Congress delegate details to agencies?
- How can the public influence agency rules?
- What happens if an agency exceeds its authority?
Try this
Review a sample rule summary and write one comment in favor or with a suggested change.
One thing to take away
Explain one way agencies are checked by other branches.
Story bridge
Story bridge
A safety rule in the story needed experts to define details. Who played that role?
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