Unilateral Action
Unilateral action is action taken by one actor without agreement or approval from other actors whose participation might otherwise be sought. In U.S. government, the term often describes executive action taken without new legislation, though lawful authority is still required.
Unilateral action is action taken by one actor without agreement or approval from other actors whose participation might otherwise be sought. In U.S. government, the term often describes executive action taken without new legislation, though lawful authority is still required.
Example: A President may issue an executive order directing executive-branch agencies to act within existing statutory authority.
Common misconception: Unilateral executive action is automatically lawful, permanent, or immune from review. It may be limited by statute, challenged in court, altered by a later administration, or affected by congressional funding decisions.
Sources: https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/; https://www.congress.gov/