Legal Definitions - State government - statutes

State government statutes are written laws enacted by the legislative branch of an individual state government. These laws apply only within the borders of that specific state and cover a vast array of topics that are not exclusively governed by federal law. They are created through a formal legislative process, typically involving the introduction of a bill, debate and voting by the state legislature, and approval by the state's governor.

Here are some examples illustrating state government statutes:

• Example 1: Environmental Protection

  Imagine the state of Oregon passes a law requiring all new residential construction to include solar panels or be pre-wired for future solar installation. This statute aims to promote renewable energy and reduce the state's carbon footprint. It would be a state government statute because it was enacted by the Oregon State Legislature, applies only to construction within Oregon, and addresses an environmental issue within the state's jurisdiction.

• Example 2: Public Education Funding

  The California State Legislature enacts a statute that mandates a specific percentage of the state's annual budget be allocated to K-12 public education, including provisions for teacher salaries, school infrastructure, and special education programs. This is a state government statute because it dictates how public funds are spent on education within California, a matter primarily managed by state authorities, and was passed by the state's legislative body.

• Example 3: Consumer Protection for Online Sales

  The New York State Assembly passes a law requiring all online retailers operating within the state to clearly disclose their data privacy policies and obtain explicit consent from customers before sharing their personal information with third parties. This statute protects consumers in New York from potential misuse of their data. It is a state government statute because it was created by the New York State Legislature, applies to businesses operating within New York, and addresses consumer rights, which states often regulate.