Glossary
Accountability
The principle that federal agencies and their employees are responsible for their actions and decisions, often through established requirements and consequences for non-compliance.
Example:
When a government agency fails to meet its mandated environmental targets, it faces accountability through congressional hearings and potential budget cuts.
Consistency
A principle in bureaucratic operations that emphasizes applying rules and regulations uniformly across all relevant cases or individuals to ensure predictability and equal treatment.
Example:
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) aims for consistency by applying the same tax codes and audit procedures to all taxpayers, ensuring similar financial situations result in similar outcomes.
Discretionary Authority
The power of federal agencies to make choices and interpret laws when implementing policies, allowing them flexibility in how they achieve legislative goals.
Example:
The Department of Transportation might use its discretionary authority to decide which specific highway projects receive funding based on current infrastructure needs and safety data.
Expertise
The specialized knowledge and skills possessed by bureaucratic agencies and their staff, which allows them to effectively interpret and implement complex laws.
Example:
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) relies on its scientific expertise to develop public health guidelines during an epidemic, informing policy with specialized medical knowledge.
Fairness
A principle guiding bureaucratic action, aiming to ensure equitable treatment and consideration of diverse needs when agencies make decisions or apply rules.
Example:
An agency distributing disaster relief funds strives for fairness by developing criteria that equally assess the needs of all affected communities, regardless of their size or political influence.
Rule-Making Authority
The power of federal agencies to create specific regulations that clarify and guide the operation of government programs, adding detailed instructions to broad laws.
Example:
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) exercises its rule-making authority by setting precise standards for food labeling, ensuring consumers receive accurate nutritional information.