What type of powers may be exercised by most administrative agencies?

Most administrative agencies possess both rulemaking and adjudicative powers, which allows them to fulfill their regulatory responsibilities effectively.

Rulemaking powers enable agencies to create regulations that have the force of law. This generally involves a process that includes proposing regulations, receiving feedback from the public, and finalizing the rules after consideration of any comments. Rulemaking is essential for the agencies to set standards, procedures, and requirements that govern the conduct of individuals and businesses within their jurisdiction.

Adjudicative powers allow agencies to resolve disputes through administrative hearings, similar to court proceedings. This enables them to enforce their rules, investigate violations, and take appropriate enforcement actions against individuals or entities that fail to comply with regulations. During these hearings, agencies can present evidence, make findings of fact, and issue decisions that can affect the rights and obligations of the parties involved.

Together, rulemaking and adjudicative powers provide administrative agencies with a comprehensive framework for regulating areas such as environment, health, and safety, thus promoting effective governance and legal adherence.

In contrast, legislative power typically refers to the ability to create laws, which is primarily reserved for elected legislative bodies rather than administrative agencies. While agencies operate under the authority granted by legislation, they do not possess true legislative power themselves