What principle explains why the actions of federal administrative agencies do not breach the separation of powers doctrine?

The correct answer highlights that checks and balances exist through judicial and legislative oversight, which helps maintain the separation of powers doctrine in the context of federal administrative agencies. This principle is rooted in the framework established by the U.S. Constitution, where each branch of government has distinct powers and responsibilities, yet they are designed to operate in coordination.

Federal administrative agencies have been created by Congress to implement and enforce laws. While these agencies have a degree of independence in their operations, they are still subject to oversight by both the legislative and judicial branches. Congress provides oversight through its authority to create, modify, or dissolve agencies and to set the parameters within which they operate through enabling legislation. Additionally, Congress has the power to conduct investigations and audits, which keeps agencies accountable for their actions.

Judicial review is another essential element of this oversight. Courts can review actions taken by administrative agencies to ensure they comply with statutory requirements and do not exceed their authority. This means that if an agency makes a decision that individuals or entities perceive as arbitrary or outside its legislative mandate, those decisions can be appealed in court.

These mechanisms ensure that no single branch of government, including the executive branch where many agencies reside, can operate unilaterally without accountability. As such, the system