Legal Definitions - revival statute

revival statute

A revival statute is a law passed by a legislative body that reinstates or reactivates a previous law that had expired, been repealed, or otherwise ceased to be in effect. It essentially "revives" an older statute, making it legally binding once again, often with some modifications or updates.

• Example 1: Imagine a state had a law providing tax incentives for businesses that hired a certain percentage of veterans. This law had a "sunset clause," meaning it was designed to expire automatically after five years. Ten years later, the state legislature, recognizing the continued importance of supporting veterans' employment, passes a new bill specifically stating that the original veteran hiring incentive law is now back in effect, with a new expiration date. This new bill is a revival statute because it brings back the previously expired tax incentive program.

• Example 2: A city council once had an ordinance requiring all new commercial buildings to include a certain amount of public green space. This ordinance was later repealed because some developers argued it was too burdensome. Years later, as the city faces increasing urban heat island effects and a desire for more sustainable development, the city council passes a new ordinance. This new ordinance explicitly declares that the previously repealed green space requirement is now reinstated, perhaps with some updated guidelines. This new ordinance serves as a revival statute, reactivating the earlier environmental building requirement.

• Example 3: Consider a federal program that offered grants for scientific research into rare diseases. This program was discontinued due to budget cuts several years ago. Following new medical breakthroughs and increased public advocacy, Congress passes a new act. This act includes a provision that specifically re-establishes the rare disease research grant program, referencing the original statute that created it. This congressional act functions as a revival statute, bringing a defunct federal grant program back into operation.