What is the main purpose of regulatory agencies in the government?

The main purpose of regulatory agencies in the government is to enforce laws and regulations. These agencies are created to implement specific legislation and to ensure compliance with laws that govern various sectors, such as health, environment, finance, and transportation. Regulatory agencies develop detailed rules and standards that organizations and individuals must follow, effectively translating broader legislative mandates into actionable and enforceable guidelines.

Once these regulations are set, the agencies monitor and assess compliance, investigate violations, and take enforcement actions when necessary. This enforcement role helps maintain order within industries and protects public interests by ensuring that entities adhere to the established laws designed to safeguard health, safety, and welfare.

In contrast, creating laws typically falls under the purview of legislative bodies, while interpreting laws is primarily the responsibility of the judiciary. Providing legal advice is generally a function of legal advisors or counsel within governmental agencies or organizations, which is different from the direct enforcement duties of regulatory agencies.