What is a regulatory agency?

A regulatory agency is primarily defined as an organization that enforces laws and regulations within specific sectors. This role is essential for ensuring compliance with legislative mandates and maintaining standards that protect public interests, health, and safety. These agencies are tasked with the oversight of particular industries or areas, such as environmental protection, financial markets, or public health, and they have the authority to create, implement, and enforce regulations that govern the behavior of individuals and organizations within those sectors.

For example, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is a regulatory agency responsible for enforcing laws related to environmental protection and pollution control. By upholding regulations and monitoring compliance, regulatory agencies help maintain order and fairness in the sectors they govern, ensuring that laws are followed and that public welfare is prioritized.

Other options reflect different types of organizations but do not align with the core purpose of a regulatory agency. Conducting scientific research, providing public services, or handling international relations are functions that pertain to different branches of government or various types of organizations, rather than the specific enforcement and regulatory roles outlined in the definition of regulatory agencies.