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A regulation is a general statement issued by an agency, board, or commission that has the force and effect of law. Congress often grants agencies the authority to issue regulations. Sometimes Congress requires agencies to issue a regulation; sometimes Congress grants agencies the discretion to do so. Many laws passed by Congress give Federal agencies some flexibility in deciding how best to implement those laws. Federal regulations specify the details and requirements necessary to implement and to enforce legislation enacted by Congress.
From Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs FAQ (reginfo.gov; see link below)
(With thanks to Debbie Rabina, drabina@pratt.edu)
Not sure where to start? The Nolo guide to Laws and Legal Research can help you better understand what you're looking for.
Library databases offer the ability to search for regulations and law review articles by keyword or subject.
Not sure which agency regulates a particular topic? Start with USA.gov: