Which term refers to the statutory laws that grant power to administrative agencies to act, and the body of law created by those agencies themselves?

• A. Administrative Law
• B. Allegation
• C. Complaint
• D. Cause of Action

Answer: (A)

Administrative law is the area that covers both the statutes that empower agencies to act and the body of law those agencies create through rules, decisions, and interpretations. The enabling statutes give agencies their authority to regulate, enforce, and adjudicate within their areas of responsibility. From there, agencies issue regulations and conduct decisions that become part of the administrative law framework—often including notice-and-comment rulemaking, hearings, and formal or informal adjudications. This is distinct from terms you’d encounter in lawsuits, such as allegations, complaints, or causes of action, which are pleadings or claims brought in civil or criminal court rather than the overarching framework that governs how agencies operate and regulate.