Legal Definitions - public agency

A public agency is an organization or body created by a government (federal, state, or local) to carry out specific functions or services for the benefit of the public. These agencies are typically funded by taxpayer money and operate under the authority of laws and regulations.

Key characteristics of a public agency include:

• It is established by a governmental entity.
• Its primary purpose is to serve the public interest.
• It exercises governmental powers or performs governmental duties.
• It is accountable to the public and often subject to public oversight.

Here are some examples to illustrate what a public agency is:

• Example 1: The City Department of Parks and Recreation

  Imagine your local city government has a department responsible for maintaining public parks, organizing community sports leagues, and running recreational programs. This is a public agency. It was created by the city council (a local government entity) to provide services like park maintenance and recreational activities for all residents. It is funded by city taxes and operates under city ordinances, serving a clear public purpose.

• Example 2: A State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)

  When you go to get your driver's license or register your car, you are interacting with a state's Department of Motor Vehicles. This is a classic example of a public agency. It is established by state law to regulate vehicle registration, issue driver's licenses, and enforce traffic safety rules across the state. Its operations are funded by state taxes and fees, and it performs essential governmental functions that impact nearly every adult resident.

• Example 3: The Federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

  The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is a public agency at the federal level. It was created by the U.S. government to protect human health and the environment by writing and enforcing regulations based on laws passed by Congress. The EPA conducts research, monitors environmental quality, and sets standards for pollution control. It is funded by federal appropriations and its mission is to serve the public good by safeguarding natural resources and public health nationwide.