ADMINISTRATIVE AGENCY

a government body responsible for control and supervision of a particular activity or area of public interest. For example, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), in addition to its other duties, administers the laws regulating access to communication facilities such as television and radio airwaves. Administrative agencies are also called REGULATORY AGENCIES. EXAMPLE: The Environmental Protection Agency was created by Congress to protect the quality of the nation's air, water, and land. Pursuant to that goal, the agency monitors air pollution in cities, sewage treatment plants, chemical landfills, etc. The Federal Trade Commission regulates commercial practices and takes action against deceptive advertising and monopolistic activity. There are many federal and state administrative agencies that enforce federal and state policies in particular areas of governmental regulation. Source: Barron's Dictionary of Legal Terms, Steven H. Gifis, 5th Edition; © 2016