In COMAR, what does "regulative authority" mean?

"Regulative authority" in the context of the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) refers specifically to the legal power granted to agencies to create rules and regulations. This authority is fundamental to how regulatory agencies operate, enabling them to establish detailed guidelines that implement and interpret legislation passed by the Maryland General Assembly.

This power is usually bestowed upon agencies to ensure that they can effectively administer and enforce laws within their specified jurisdiction. The creation of rules and regulations allows agencies to address specific situations that may arise and provide clarity on how laws are to be applied in practice.

The other options present activities related to regulatory processes but do not accurately define "regulative authority." For instance, revising existing laws pertains more to the legislative branch rather than the regulatory function of agencies. Holding public hearings is an important procedural step in the rule-making process but does not capture the essence of what regulative authority entails. Similarly, the enforcement of penalties is a consequence of having authority but does not define the scope of regulatory power itself. Therefore, the choice that accurately reflects the definition of "regulative authority" is the legal power granted to agencies to create rules and regulations.