Hatályosulása

Hatályosulása refers to the process by which a law, regulation, or legal act comes into effect and begins to be binding. In the Hungarian legal system, this concept is crucial for understanding when a legal norm transitions from a proposal or a published text to an enforceable rule. The term itself is derived from the Hungarian verb "hatályosul," meaning "to become effective" or "to come into force."

The precise moment of hatályosulása is typically determined by the enacting legislation itself. Often, a law will specify a date on which it will enter into force. If no specific date is mentioned, a general legal provision might apply, stating that a law becomes effective on the eighth day following its publication in the Official Gazette (Magyar Közlöny). This publication is a fundamental step, as it ensures public awareness of the new legal provisions.

The hatályosulása of a legal act is a formal and essential requirement. Until a law has entered into force, it does not create legal rights or obligations for individuals or entities. The principle of legal certainty dictates that citizens must be able to know when new rules apply to them. Therefore, the clear and timely hatályosulása of legislation is paramount for the functioning of the rule of law. Different types of legal acts, such as decrees, ordinances, or international treaties ratified by Hungary, also have their own specific procedures for hatályosulása, though the underlying principle of becoming legally binding remains the same.