Voimassaolossa

Voimassaolossa is a Finnish legal term that describes the status of a normative act, such as a law, government decree, or regulation, when it is currently in force and applicable. It indicates that the act is binding and has not been repealed, suspended, or otherwise rendered non-applicable.

Use and scope: The status is determined by the act itself and by subsequent amendments or repeals. An act enters into force (voimaantulo) on the date stated in its provisions or on a date set by secondary legislation. In practice, some provisions may be in force at different times due to transitional rules. The expression voimassaolossa is commonly used in legal databases, government communications, and legislative summaries to signal that the rule is presently valid.

Effects and interpretation: When an act is in force, it governs rights and obligations for individuals and authorities as laid out in its text. The status can change if the act is amended, partially repealed, or fully repealed. Some provisions may be in force only partially or subject to transitional arrangements, which can affect practical application.

Relation to related concepts: Voimassaolossa is distinct from voimaantulo, the moment an act becomes legally binding, and from repeal or kumoaminen, which remove an act from force. In Finland, the current validity of acts is often shown in official sources and databases such as Finlex, including entry-into-force dates and subsequent amendments.

See also: voimaantulo, lainsäädäntö, Finlex.