Independent Agencies

Definition

Independent agencies are those parts of government not included in cabinet departments or executive agencies; they're established by Congress to address concerns that go beyond the scope of ordinary legislation.

Analogy

Independent agencies are like referees in a football game. They aren't part of any team (department), but they have an important role to play in ensuring fair play (regulating and overseeing certain areas).

Related terms

Quasi-Legislative: This refers to the capacity in which public administrative agencies, with delegated powers, make rules and regulations.

Quasi-Judicial: This refers to actions and decisions taken by administrative agencies of government which affect individual rights and liberties.

Regulatory Commissions: These are public authorities or government agencies responsible for exercising autonomous authority over some area of human activity in a regulatory or supervisory capacity.