frameworklegislation

Framework legislation, often called a framework act, is a type of primary law that sets out the overarching objectives, scope, and governance structure for a policy domain. It authorizes the executive to enact detailed regulations, standards, and procedures without requiring new primary legislation for each change. The act typically defines the relevant institutions, allocates powers to agencies, and establishes general criteria for rulemaking, supervision, and enforcement. It may also set principles, timelines, and reporting requirements, and may include sunset clauses, review mechanisms, and interdepartmental coordination rules.

The main features include enabling powers to make subordinate legislation, a coherent governance framework across the sector, and mechanisms for accountability, such as oversight bodies or parliamentary scrutiny of regulations. Framework legislation can provide flexibility to respond to evolving technologies, scientific knowledge, or administrative priorities, reducing the need for frequent amendments to primary law.

Critics note that if kept too broad, framework acts can yield vague mandates and excessive discretion, risking regulatory drift without strong checks. Successful implementation typically requires robust regulatory design, transparent rulemaking processes, public consultation, and regular performance reviews.

Framework legislation is widely used in public administration, notably in environmental, planning, transport, and public health areas, where a broad policy goal is paired with a program of regulatory measures developed under the act. It contrasts with detailed, prescriptive primary legislation that specifies every rule upfront.