A government agency is a division of the government that has the duty of executing specific tasks or delivering particular services to the public. It functions as a cohesive group of individuals who collaborate to ensure that the government fulfils its obligations. In certain cases, if a contractor working for the government encounters an issue, they may employ the government-agency defence as a means to evade liability for any resulting harm.
Government agencies are organisations established by the government to perform specific duties or offer services to the public. These agencies can exist at the federal, state, or local level and have the responsibility of enforcing laws, overseeing industries, and providing public services. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is an example of a government agency that safeguards human health and the environment. It establishes and enforces regulations concerning air and water quality, hazardous waste, and other environmental concerns. Another instance is the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), which investigates and enforces federal laws, including terrorism, cybercrime, and organized crime. These examples demonstrate the purpose and significance of government agencies in carrying out essential tasks on behalf of the government and the public.
A government agency is a department or organisation within the government that is responsible for carrying out specific functions or services.
Examples of government agencies include the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
The purpose of a government agency is to provide services and regulate activities that are important to the public interest.
Government agencies are created by legislation passed by Congress or by executive order from the President.
Congress has the power to oversee government agencies through its power of the purse, which allows it to control the funding of agencies, and through its power to conduct investigations and hold hearings.
The President has the power to appoint the heads of government agencies and to issue executive orders that direct the activities of agencies.
The Freedom of Information Act is a federal law that allows individuals to request access to government agency records and information.
The Privacy Act is a federal law that regulates the collection, use, and dissemination of personal information by government agencies.
Administrative law is the body of law that governs the activities of government agencies, including their rulemaking, adjudication, and enforcement functions.
The courts have the power to review and overturn government agency actions that are arbitrary, capricious, or contrary to law.
This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
This glossary post was last updated: 17th April 2024.
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