What is the definition of regulations in a legal context?

In a legal context, regulations refer specifically to the rules or laws created by governmental agencies to implement and enforce statutes enacted by legislative bodies, such as Congress. These agencies, which are part of the executive branch of government, are empowered to develop detailed rules that provide clarity and guidance on how the broader laws (statutes) will be applied in specific situations.

Regulations are generally designed to address specific issues within the framework of the law and can cover a wide range of topics, from environmental standards to healthcare practices. This makes them a crucial component of administrative law, as they ensure that the intent of the legislature is carried out through practical, enforceable measures. Unlike federal directives, which may be temporary and not always formal, or statutes that are broad mandates established by Congress, regulations provide the necessary specificity for enforcement and compliance.