Regulatory Competition

Many nations have multiple jurisdictions with national, state, and (sometimes) local regulatory commissions. There is often a lack of clarity for the roles and responsibilities for these agencies. When a new (often, unanticipated) issue arises, each agency is likely to view the actions of other commissions are over-reaching their authority. The courts or new legislation may clarify the roles. Environmental regulators may impose rules that have implications for the sector regulator, and vice versa-leading to disputes and interagency conflicts.