Introduction and context: American policy-making structures and processes

Different kinds of "law":

• statute
• regulations
• "orders" (especially executive orders)

Role of Congress

• passing laws (just the tip of the iceberg)
• importance of committee system

1. examination and revision of proposed legislation
2. investigation of areas that might be affected by, or require, new legislation
3. "oversight" of executive branch
• importance of lobbying role (NGOs, trade associations, private sector)

Role of Presidency

• in legislative process:

1. proposing legislation
2. potential veto

• executive orders and decision directives

Role of executive branch agencies

• Office of Management and Budget, General Services Administration
• regulatory agencies

1. in particular: Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
• 1934 Communications Act
2. also important: Federal Trade Commission (FTC)

Role of courts

• judicial review (constitutionality)
• criminal and civil cases
• importance of precedents