Discretionary Power

Definition

Discretionary power refers to the authority granted to a regulatory agency to make decisions based on its own judgment or interpretation when implementing and enforcing rules. It allows the agency flexibility in deciding how best to carry out its responsibilities within the framework of existing laws.

Related terms

Rulemaking: The process through which a regulatory agency creates new regulations or modifies existing ones.

Administrative Law: The body of law that governs administrative agencies' powers and procedures.

Judicial Review: The process by which courts review actions taken by regulatory agencies to determine if they are consistent with constitutional principles and statutory requirements.