Compare and contrast the effectiveness of Statutory Law (the Legislative Branch), Case Law (The Judicial Branch), and Administrative Law (The Executive Branch) in determining environmental policy.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

All of these branches of the government can be helpful in the protection of our environment. However, the way in which decisions are reached is very different. In the legislative branch, there are two types of legislation-authorizing bills and appropriation bills. Establishing new laws is one of the most important ways of protecting our environment; however, it can be a very time-consuming process that involves many steps. Lobbying can change minds regarding pending legislation. Getting media attention can also sway the opinions of those who make decisions. In the judicial branch, appeals have often been the most effective way for environmental groups to force changes in how things are done. Many environmental groups spend a lot of time bringing lawsuits that will change environmental policy. This branch of government establishes environmental law by ruling on the constitutionality of statutes and interpreting their meaning. A trial judge presides over trials and decides what is admissible and which laws apply. Finally, in the executive branch, the power is in the hands of thousands of federal, state, and local officials. In informal cases, environmentally concerned citizens and public interest groups are allowed to comment and therefore have a direct impact on environmental policy.