Which administrative rule interprets statutes and provides guidance but is not binding on individuals?

• A. Procedural rule
• B. Legislative rule
• C. Adjudicative rule
• D. Interpretative rule

Answer: (D)

Interpreting statutes and offering guidance without creating new duties is what an interpretative rule does. When an agency issues such a rule, it explains how the agency understands and will apply existing statutes or regulations. It helps people know what to expect and how the agency will interpret ambiguous terms, but it does not establish new rights or obligations for the public, nor does it bind individuals in the way a rule with the force of law would.

Procedural rules govern how the agency operates and conducts processes, and they shape the steps you must follow to interact with the agency. Legislative rules have the binding force of law on the public, creating new obligations or prohibitions. Adjudicative rules apply to the agency’s decisions in specific cases, affecting particular persons or entities involved in those cases. Because interpretative rules provide interpretive guidance rather than new mandates, they best fit the description.