Lainvoimaan

Lainvoimaan is a Finnish term referring to the status of a law or regulation when it has been formally enacted and is currently enforceable. The concept centers on the moment a text becomes legally binding and applicable to rights and obligations. In most jurisdictions, including Finland, the entry into force (voimaantulo) is a key part of legislation: a law is often adopted by the parliament, signed by the president, and published in the official legal code or gazette. The act normally specifies the date on which it becomes effective; if no date is given, the law typically takes effect on a defined publication date or on a date established by default rules, sometimes with transitional provisions to bridge old and new rules.

Transitional provisions may outline how ongoing matters are treated, how rights and duties are phased in, and how preexisting situations are handled after the law comes into force. Once a law is in force, its provisions apply to relevant cases and actors, and authorities are required to apply the new rules. Individuals and organizations may become subject to or eligible for rights under the law as of the entry into force date.

The concept of loi voimaantulo or similar terms exists in many legal systems, with variations in terminology and procedure. While the mechanics—approval, promulgation, publication, and a defined effective date—are broadly similar, the exact rules for voimaantulo differ by jurisdiction and legal tradition. In practice, the moment of entering into force is a critical milestone for the legal impact of a statute.